The Caribbean Sea is heating up as the US ramps up its pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. President Trump, flanked by his top national security team, issued a stern warning to Maduro, stating, “If he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’ll ever be able to play tough.”
This latest escalation comes as the US Coast Guard intensely pursues oil tankers suspected of being part of Venezuela’s “dark fleet,” a clandestine network designed to bypass international sanctions. The administration views these ships as crucial to Maduro’s ability to maintain power, moving sanctioned cargo and evading restrictions.
Recently, the Coast Guard successfully intercepted and seized two Panama-flagged vessels, the Centuries and the Skipper, which officials identified as part of this illicit fleet. These actions are part of a broader strategy that began with efforts to stem illegal drug flow but has now expanded into a comprehensive economic squeeze on the Caracas government. Trump even took a break from his holiday to reaffirm his commitment to this aggressive stance, announcing plans for new naval construction and doubling down on his promise of a “blockade” if necessary. He also demanded Venezuela return assets seized from US oil companies years ago, further justifying the ongoing crackdown.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the global message behind these actions: “the illegal activity that Maduro is participating in cannot stand, he needs to be gone, and that we will stand up for our people.” The US seems determined to cut off every avenue for Maduro’s government to operate outside international law, making it clear that this high-stakes game on the seas is far from over.
Source: https://www.irishexaminer.com/world/arid-41764832.html
