Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Sunday he’s standing firm to protect national peace and stability 🌟. After 25 straight weeks of what he calls “aggression” – from psychological tactics to oil tanker hijackings – the message is clear: “We won’t back down.”
This week, U.S. news outlets reported the U.S. Coast Guard is in active pursuit of a third oil tanker off Venezuelan waters. The vessel is accused of flying a false flag under a judicial seizure order. If caught, it’d be the third tanker linked to Venezuela intercepted by the U.S. in under two weeks.
Here’s a quick timeline:
- Dec 10: U.S. forces seize the tanker Skipper near Venezuelan waters and plan to keep its oil.
- Dec 16: President Donald Trump orders a “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned tankers, labeling Maduro’s government a “foreign terrorist organization.”
- Dec 21: Bloomberg and NBC report the pursuit of the tanker Bella 1 and an unnamed “dark fleet” vessel.
Oil is the lifeline of Venezuela’s economy, making up most of its foreign revenue. With dozens of sanctioned tankers still loitering in local waters, tensions are high 🌊🚢.
Venezuela accuses the U.S. of aiming for regime change and calls these interceptions “piracy.” Meanwhile, Maduro’s vow reflects the resilience of the Venezuelan people facing international pressure.
Reference(s):
Maduro says Venezuela steadfast in defending national peace, stability
cgtn.com
