DEVELOPING: US Navy Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker in High-Stakes Maritime Showdown

US Navy Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker in High-Stakes Maritime Showdown The US Navy has seized a Venezuelan oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a significant escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's government. According to President Donald Trump, the tanker is the largest ever seized by US forces. The seizure occurred on an unspecified date and time, with the US military taking control of the vessel. Attorney General Pam Bondi released a video of the seizure, describing the tanker as a "crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran". The Trump administration has accused Venezuela of funneling narcotics into the US and has intensified efforts to isolate President Maduro in recent months. Venezuela, home to some of the world's largest proven oil reserves, has accused Washington of seeking to steal its resources. The seizure has sparked a strong reaction from Caracas, with President Maduro declaring that Venezuela would never become an "oil colony". The Venezuelan government has condemned the action as an "act of international piracy". This is a developing story, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming hours and days. The US Navy's actions are likely to have significant implications for the ongoing standoff between Washington and Caracas, and the global oil market.