US Seizes Venezuela-Bound Oil Tanker in Dramatic Escalation of US Pressure Campaign

US forces seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's government. According to President Donald Trump, the vessel was a "large tanker, very large, the largest one ever seized actually," used to transport crude oil from Venezuela and Iran. The seizure was confirmed through a video released by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who described the tanker as a "crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran." The US government has accused Venezuela of funneling narcotics into the US and has intensified its efforts to isolate President Maduro in recent months. Venezuela, in turn, has accused Washington of seeking to steal its resources. The country is home to some of the world's largest proven oil reserves. The Trump administration has imposed various sanctions on Venezuela in an effort to pressure Maduro's government to step down. President Maduro responded swiftly to the seizure, calling it an "act of international piracy." Earlier in the day, Maduro declared that Venezuela would never become an "oil colony." The Venezuelan government has long been critical of US policy towards the country, viewing it as an attempt to undermine its sovereignty. The seizure of the oil tanker has led to a rise in Brent crude prices, with prices inching higher on Wednesday. The move has also sparked concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region. The US has been increasing its pressure on Maduro's government in recent months, with the aim of promoting a transition to a new government. The US government has maintained that its actions are aimed at promoting democracy and human rights in Venezuela. However, the Venezuelan government views the US actions as an attempt to undermine its authority and exploit its natural resources. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of aggression. The next developments in this situation are uncertain, but it is clear that the US-Venezuela relationship remains strained. The US government has shown no signs of backing down from its pressure campaign, while the Venezuelan government remains committed to defending its sovereignty. The international community is watching the situation closely, with many countries calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.