US Forces Seize Venezuelan Oil Tanker in Dramatic Show of Force

US forces seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday, in a major escalation of President Donald Trump's four-month pressure campaign against the South American country's dictator, Nicolás Maduro. The operation, confirmed by Trump, involved US forces landing on the tanker from a helicopter, according to footage shared online by US Attorney General Pam Bondi. The grainy, unclassified 45-second video shows US forces taking control of the tanker, which Trump described as "a very large tanker, the largest one ever seized actually." Bondi stated in an accompanying statement that the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and other agencies were involved in the operation. However, Trump declined to reveal who owned the vessel, citing the reason for the seizure as "very good." The Venezuelan government responded swiftly, denouncing the seizure as an "act of international piracy." In a statement, the government called the operation a "clear example of the US government's aggressive and interventionist policies against the Venezuelan people." Maduro has been a key target of Trump's pressure campaign, which has included economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation. The seizure of the oil tanker marks a significant escalation in the US-Venezuela conflict, which has been ongoing for months. The Trump administration has been seeking to oust Maduro, who has maintained power despite widespread protests and international condemnation. The operation is seen as a major test of Trump's strategy, which has been criticized by many as overly aggressive and ineffective. International observers have expressed concern over the implications of the seizure, with some warning of a potential escalation of tensions in the region. "This operation is a clear example of the US government's disregard for international law and the sovereignty of other nations," said a spokesperson for the Organization of American States. "We urge all parties to exercise restraint and seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict." The current status of the tanker and its crew is unclear, with reports suggesting that they are being held by US authorities. The operation is expected to have significant implications for the global oil market, with prices potentially rising in response to the disruption. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see how the US and Venezuela respond to the escalating tensions. In a statement, the US State Department said that the operation was carried out in accordance with international law and was aimed at disrupting the flow of oil to the Maduro regime. The department also emphasized that the US remains committed to a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Venezuela.