A US command intercepted a Venezuelan oil tanker in Venezuelan waters, which Caracas considers piracy. This increases tensions between the US and Maduro’s regime. Washington claims the Skipper vessel defied sanctions for illegal oil transport in support of terrorist organizations. This action could have implications of military intervention.
The Trump Administration launched Operation Southern Spear against Venezuela, with a strong naval and aerial deployment, initially to combat drug trafficking but with greater political objectives such as pressuring Maduro. Rubio leads the policy towards Venezuela, pushing for sanctions and designating the Cartel of the Sun as a terrorist. Washington seeks to influence Latin America, isolating Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela. Although they seek to force Maduro’s exit, uncertainties persist about the country’s future and the role of Russia and China.
