Venezuela Denies US Boat Strike Victims Were Gang Members, Contradicting Initial Reports

Breaking News: Venezuela Denies US Boat Strike Victims Were Gang Members Venezuela's interior minister has confirmed that none of the 11 people killed in a US military strike on a boat in the Caribbean last week were members of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The statement comes as the Trump administration faces growing scrutiny over its claims that the vessel was transporting illegal narcotics. According to reports, the US boat struck the Venezuelan vessel on Thursday, killing all 11 people on board. The incident has sparked outrage in Venezuela, with President Nicolas Maduro condemning the attack and demanding an explanation from Washington. The US Congress has also demanded justification for the strike, with some lawmakers questioning the administration's claims about the cargo. The Venezuelan interior minister stated that the victims were ordinary citizens who were returning to shore after a fishing trip. "This is a murder committed by the US military," he said. "We demand an explanation and accountability." Background reports suggest that the vessel had turned around and was heading back to shore when it was struck by the US boat. The incident has raised questions about the US administration's claims of a successful anti-narcotics operation. The immediate impact of the strike is still unclear, but it is likely to strain already tense relations between Washington and Caracas. Venezuela has long been critical of US intervention in its internal affairs, and this latest incident is likely to fuel further tensions. As the situation unfolds, the international community will be watching closely for any developments. The US Congress is expected to continue demanding answers from the administration about the strike, while Venezuela's government is likely to press on with its demands for accountability. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*