Reports indicate that the U.S. has reportedly assembled a target list of several Venezuelan oil tankers, raising tensions amid ongoing geopolitical disputes. This development comes amid strained relations between Washington and Caracas over oil shipments and regional influence.

Reports: U.S. Assembled Target List of Several Venezuelan Oil Tankers

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow’s support for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro following the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan tanker. The move highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S., Russia, and Venezuela, and underscores Moscow’s continued solidarity with Caracas.

Putin Reassures Maduro of Russia’s Support After US Tanker Seizure

The United States has intensified its pressure on Venezuela amid ongoing political and economic tensions. President Donald Trump has again suggested the possibility of military strikes targeting Venezuelan drug shipments, raising concerns over potential escalation in the region.

US Ramps Up Pressure on Venezuela as Trump Threatens Strikes on Drug Shipments

U.S.-Venezuela: U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated that land-based military strikes targeting Venezuela’s drug shipments are imminent, signaling a further escalation in Washington’s campaign against alleged narcotics trafficking networks in the region. 


U.S.-Venezuela: Trump: Land Strikes on Venezuela Drug Shipments Coming Soon 

The United States has increased pressure on Venezuela amid President Donald Trump’s renewed threat of land-based military strikes targeting drug shipments. Trump reiterated that these operations will begin “very soon,” highlighting Washington’s aggressive stance against alleged narcotics trafficking networks linked to the Maduro government.

U.S. Ramps Up Pressure on Venezuela: Trump Warns of Land Strikes on Drug Shipments

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro sharply condemned the US seizure of an oil tanker from his country on Thursday (Dec 11), calling the move an act of "naval piracy" that has pushed tensions with Washington to a dangerous new level. His statement comes as the White House confirmed that the seized tanker is being brought to a US port and said the United States "does intend to seize the oil" on board the Venezuelan vessel. The tanker was intercepted off Venezuela’s coast in a dramatic raid in which American forces rappelled from a helicopter onto the deck.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seizes-oil-tanker-off-venezuela-trump-warns-other-things-are-happening-watch-video-1765414525829">US seizes oil tanker off Venezuela, Trump warns 'other things are happening'. Watch video</a><h2>Maduro slams Trump's 'naval piracy'</h2>Slamming the US President Donald Trump administration's seizure of the Venezuelan oil tanker, Maduro said, "They kidnapped the crew, stole the ship and have inaugurated a new era, the era of criminal naval piracy in the Caribbean." Speaking during a televised event, he vowed that Venezuela would "secure all ships to guarantee the free trade of its oil around the world."Venezuela's foreign ministry also strongly denounced and condemned what it said was "blatant theft and an act of international piracy."Russia’s Vladimir Putin offered verbal support for Maduro in a phone call Thursday, though Russia’s capacity to assist is limited as its military remains tied down in Ukraine.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-re-sick-erika-kirk-calls-out-internet-ghouls-hunting-high-res-video-of-charlie-kirk-assassination-1765434803268">Erika Kirk shames 'sick' ghouls hunting high-res video of Charlie Kirk murder</a><h2>US to seize the oil?</h2>White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told the press that the United States intends to take possession of the oil on board. "The vessel will go to a US port, and the United States does intend to seize the oil," she said.Defending the seizure, she said, "We're not going to stand by and watch sanctioned vessels sail the seas with black-market oil, the proceeds of which will fuel narco-terrorism of rogue and illegitimate regimes around the world." US officials say the tanker was part of an illicit network used to move oil for Venezuela and Iran in violation of sanctions.Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, in a statement, said that the tanker seizure operation was aimed at the Maduro "regime". Earlier, she told a congressional hearing that the tanker operation was "pushing back on a regime that is systematically covering and flooding our country with deadly drugs".The seizure comes amid a major US naval buildup in the Caribbean and a series of lethal US strikes on alleged drug boats that have killed nearly 90 people. Maduro says the United States is laying the groundwork for regime change. &nbsp;

Maduro blasted the US for "naval piracy" after American forces seized a Venezuelan oil tanker in a helicopter raid. He says Washington "kidnapped" the crew and stole the ship, while the White House confirms it will seize the oil.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro sharply condemned the US seizure of an oil tanker from his country on Thursday (Dec 11), calling the move an act of "naval piracy" that has pushed tensions with Washington to a dangerous new level. His statement comes as the White House confirmed that the seized tanker is being brought to a US port and said the United States "does intend to seize the oil" on board the Venezuelan vessel. The tanker was intercepted off Venezuela’s coast in a dramatic raid in which American forces rappelled from a helicopter onto the deck. Also read | US seizes oil tanker off Venezuela, Trump warns 'other things are happening'. Watch video Maduro slams Trump's 'naval piracy' Slamming the US President Donald Trump administration's seizure of the Venezuelan oil tanker, Maduro said, "They kidnapped the crew, stole the ship and have inaugurated a new era, the era of criminal naval piracy in the Caribbean." Speaking during a televised event, he vowed that Venezuela would "secure all ships to guarantee the free trade of its oil around the world." Venezuela's foreign ministry also strongly denounced and condemned what it said was "blatant theft and an act of international piracy." Russia’s Vladimir Putin offered verbal support for Maduro in a phone call Thursday, though Russia’s capacity to assist is limited as its military remains tied down in Ukraine. Also read | Erika Kirk shames 'sick' ghouls hunting high-res video of Charlie Kirk murder US to seize the oil? White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told the press that the United States intends to take possession of the oil on board. "The vessel will go to a US port, and the United States does intend to seize the oil," she said. Defending the seizure, she said, "We're not going to stand by and watch sanctioned vessels sail the seas with black-market oil, the proceeds of which will fuel narco-terrorism of rogue and illegitimate regimes around the world." US officials say the tanker was part of an illicit network used to move oil for Venezuela and Iran in violation of sanctions. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, in a statement, said that the tanker seizure operation was aimed at the Maduro "regime". Earlier, she told a congressional hearing that the tanker operation was "pushing back on a regime that is systematically covering and flooding our country with deadly drugs". The seizure comes amid a major US naval buildup in the Caribbean and a series of lethal US strikes on alleged drug boats that have killed nearly 90 people. Maduro says the United States is laying the groundwork for regime change.

Maduro blasted the US for "naval piracy" after American forces seized a Venezuelan oil tanker in a helicopter raid. He says Washington "kidnapped" the crew and stole the ship, while the White House confirms it will seize the oil.

Nicolas Maduro slams Trump admin's 'naval piracy' as White House confirms US will 'seize the oil' from Venezuelan tanker

Nobel Peace Laureate Maria Corina Machado addressed an audience in Oslo, discussing her escape from Venezuela with reported U.S. government assistance. This video covers her remarks, the circumstances of her departure, and the international reactions to her appearance, providing context on Venezuela’s political situation and Machado’s global advocacy.

“U.S. Govt Helped Me Leave Venezuela”: Machado Speaks in Oslo

Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado addressed the media in a press conference, sharing her views on global peace, solidarity, and the ongoing efforts to promote human rights worldwide.

Breaking: Nobel Peace Laureate Maria Corina Machado Speaks at Press Conference 

Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado has ensured that she will return to her country, despite knowing the risk of it. She will address the media shortly. Earlier on Thursday, Machado made her first public appearance in almost a year and waved to supporters from the balcony of her Oslo hotel. The Nobel laureate was last seen in public on January 9 when she protested Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro's inauguration for his third term. Machado took the risk to leave Venezuela even after warnings by Maduro's government that she would be named ‘fugitive’ if she flees the country. It remains unclear how she escaped the country despite a travel ban that was imposed on her by the Maduro government in 2014.&nbsp;"I came to receive the prize on behalf of the Venezuelan people and I will take it back to Venezuela at the correct moment," Machado said as she left the Norwegian parliament. Though, she didn't say when she would return but added that she wanted "to end with this tyranny very soon and have a free Venezuela".<h2>Who is Maria Corina Machado?</h2>Maria Corina Machado, also known as “Iron Lady of Venezuela”, was awarded 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” She has fought in Venezuela against the government of both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro. She won the opposition's primary election in 2023 but was barred by the Venezuelan government from running for president in the 2024 election. However, she also faces widespread criticism for allegedly supporting the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean against alleged Venezuelan drug-boats and Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza war.<h2>Machado's daughter accepts her Nobel Peace Prize</h2>Just a day ago, Machado informed Jorgen Watne Frydnes, Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, that she would not be able to reach the Nobel ceremony in time and her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, stepped in to collect the award instead. At the award ceremony in Oslo on Wednesday, Sosa delivered a speech written by her mother, telling the audience that Venezuela had shown the world “we must be willing to fight for freedom.” Earlier in a statement on Thursday after reaching Oslo, Machado praised people of Venezuela who helped her flee and said, “So many people risked their lives in order for me to arrive in Oslo. This recognition is for the Venezuelan people. I want you to know that.”

Maria Corina Machado, Venezuela’s opposition leader and new Nobel laureate, resurfaced in Oslo after nearly a year in hiding. Despite a travel ban from Maduro’s government, she vowed to return home even as no one knows how she escaped

Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado has ensured that she will return to her country, despite knowing the risk of it. She will address the media shortly. Earlier on Thursday, Machado made her first public appearance in almost a year and waved to supporters from the balcony of her Oslo hotel. The Nobel laureate was last seen in public on January 9 when she protested Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro's inauguration for his third term. Machado took the risk to leave Venezuela even after warnings by Maduro's government that she would be named ‘fugitive’ if she flees the country. It remains unclear how she escaped the country despite a travel ban that was imposed on her by the Maduro government in 2014. "I came to receive the prize on behalf of the Venezuelan people and I will take it back to Venezuela at the correct moment," Machado said as she left the Norwegian parliament. Though, she didn't say when she would return but added that she wanted "to end with this tyranny very soon and have a free Venezuela". Who is Maria Corina Machado? Maria Corina Machado, also known as “Iron Lady of Venezuela”, was awarded 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” She has fought in Venezuela against the government of both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro. She won the opposition's primary election in 2023 but was barred by the Venezuelan government from running for president in the 2024 election. However, she also faces widespread criticism for allegedly supporting the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean against alleged Venezuelan drug-boats and Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza war. Machado's daughter accepts her Nobel Peace Prize Just a day ago, Machado informed Jorgen Watne Frydnes, Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, that she would not be able to reach the Nobel ceremony in time and her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, stepped in to collect the award instead. At the award ceremony in Oslo on Wednesday, Sosa delivered a speech written by her mother, telling the audience that Venezuela had shown the world “we must be willing to fight for freedom.” Earlier in a statement on Thursday after reaching Oslo, Machado praised people of Venezuela who helped her flee and said, “So many people risked their lives in order for me to arrive in Oslo. This recognition is for the Venezuelan people. I want you to know that.”

Maria Corina Machado, Venezuela’s opposition leader and new Nobel laureate, resurfaced in Oslo after nearly a year in hiding. Despite a travel ban from Maduro’s government, she vowed to return home even as no one knows how she escaped

How Venezuelan leader Machado reached Oslo? No one knows! But she confirms, 'I'm going back'

U.S.- Venezuela: The United States has intercepted a large oil tanker near Venezuela’s coast, with President Donald Trump confirming the operation and suggesting that more actions could follow. The move has sparked anger from Caracas, which denounced the seizure as "blatant theft" and an act of piracy.


U.S.- Venezuela: U.S. Intercepts Large Oil Tanker Near Venezuela, Trump Hints at More Actions

Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado made a public appearance in Oslo after almost a year, marking her return to the global stage despite missing the official Nobel ceremony due to travel restrictions. Her presence in Oslo was celebrated by supporters and highlighted as a significant moment for Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement, as Machado continues to advocate for freedom and justice in her country. 

Nobel Winner Machado Makes Public Appearance in Oslo, Skips Nobel Ceremony

The United States has seized a large oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 10), triggering an angry response from Caracas, which called the move "blatant theft" and an act of piracy. Trump made the announcement during a White House roundtable with business leaders, saying the vessel was the biggest tanker ever seized by the US. US Attorney General Pam Bondi later shared a video showing troops rappelling from a helicopter onto the deck of the tanker before entering its bridge with weapons drawn. This comes amid a huge US military buildup in the Caribbean, which Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro claims is aimed at regime change in the country.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-killed-in-us-boat-strike-hours-after-lawmakers-viewed-disturbing-footage-of-survivors-getting-blown-up-1764922214953">Four killed in US boat strike hours after lawmakers viewed 'disturbing' footage of survivors getting blown up</a><h2>Other things happening: Trump</h2>Talking to the press, Trump offered few details of the tanker seizure but hinted that more actions were underway. "We've just seized a tanker on the coast of Venezuela, a large tanker, very large -- the largest one ever seized, actually," he said, adding, "And other things are happening, so you'll be seeing that later."Posting a video of the seizure, Bondi, on X, said the ship was part of an "illicit oil shipping network" used to transport sanctioned crude from Venezuela and Iran. Watch video here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">Today, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, executed a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. For multiple… <a href="https://t.co/dNr0oAGl5x">pic.twitter.com/dNr0oAGl5x</a>&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/1998875795151024337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Venezuela slams the US</h2>Venezuela's foreign ministry reacted swiftly, accusing Washington of carrying out an act of international piracy. In a statement, it said that it "strongly denounces and condemns what constitutes blatant theft and an act of international piracy, publicly announced by the President of the United States."American media reported that the tanker was bound for Cuba and was intercepted by the US Coast Guard.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-launch-lethal-land-strikes-in-latin-america-very-soon-1764730302433">Trump says US will launch lethal land strikes in Latin America 'very soon,' Hegseth vows boat strikes 'only just begun'</a><h2>Machado's Nobel Peace Prize</h2>The move also landed just a day before Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was due to address the world from Oslo after being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Machado has been in hiding for months following threats to her life. While she missed the formal ceremony, she is expected to appear at a press conference in Norway on Thursday.Trump warned Caracas against detaining Machado if she attempts to return home. "I don't like if she would be arrested, I wouldn't be happy with it," he said when asked about the possibility of her arrest.In a speech read by her daughter at the Nobel ceremony, Machado accused Maduro of running a system of "state terrorism" and urged Venezuelans to continue resisting his rule.Tensions between Washington and Caracas have been rising for weeks. The Trump administration has deployed warships, including the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to the region and has carried out deadly strikes on more than 20 alleged drug boats, killing at least 87 people.&nbsp;

US has seized a massive oil tanker off Venezuela, which Trump said was the “largest one ever” taken. Caracas slammed Washington, crying piracy and theft as US troops stormed the ship by helicopter. 

The United States has seized a large oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 10), triggering an angry response from Caracas, which called the move "blatant theft" and an act of piracy. Trump made the announcement during a White House roundtable with business leaders, saying the vessel was the biggest tanker ever seized by the US. US Attorney General Pam Bondi later shared a video showing troops rappelling from a helicopter onto the deck of the tanker before entering its bridge with weapons drawn. This comes amid a huge US military buildup in the Caribbean, which Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro claims is aimed at regime change in the country. Also read | Four killed in US boat strike hours after lawmakers viewed 'disturbing' footage of survivors getting blown up Other things happening: Trump Talking to the press, Trump offered few details of the tanker seizure but hinted that more actions were underway. "We've just seized a tanker on the coast of Venezuela, a large tanker, very large -- the largest one ever seized, actually," he said, adding, "And other things are happening, so you'll be seeing that later." Posting a video of the seizure, Bondi, on X, said the ship was part of an "illicit oil shipping network" used to transport sanctioned crude from Venezuela and Iran. Watch video here:

US has seized a massive oil tanker off Venezuela, which Trump said was the “largest one ever” taken. Caracas slammed Washington, crying piracy and theft as US troops stormed the ship by helicopter.&nbsp;

US seizes oil tanker off Venezuela, Trump warns 'other things are happening'. Watch video

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, has safely reached Oslo but will not attend the awards ceremony. The Nobel Institute confirmed her daughter will accept the prize on her behalf, while Ana Corina Sosa delivers Machado’s prepared speech. Machado has been in hiding since Venezuela’s disputed 2024 elections, fighting for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.

Maria Corina Machado's Daughter Delivers Her Speech: 'Venezuela Will Breathe Again'

President Donald Trump has defended War Secretary Hegseth following a controversial double-strike operation on a Venezuelan boat. This video breaks down the military action, Trump’s comments in support of Hegseth, and the domestic and international reactions to the incident. Stay informed on the unfolding debate over U.S. military operations and accountability in foreign engagements.


US-Venezuela tensions: Trump refuses to rule out ground ops in Venezuela 

US ramps up military deployment, preparations for ground ops in Venezuela?

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, has safely reached Oslo but will not attend the awards ceremony. The Nobel Institute confirmed her daughter will accept the prize on her behalf, while Ana Corina Sosa delivers Machado’s prepared speech. Machado has been in hiding since Venezuela’s disputed 2024 elections, fighting for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.


Venezuela's opposition leader Maria Corina Machado given Nobel Peace Prize

Venezuela’s most prominent opposition leader, María Corina Machado, has vowed to continue her struggle to free the country from years of “obscene corruption”, “brutal dictatorship” and “despair” as she was awarded the Nobel peace prize at a ceremony in Norway’s capital, Oslo.


Nobel Peace Prize 2025: Venezuelan opposition leader's daughter to receive award 

US President Donald Trump, while talking to Politico, unintentionally revealed new details about the strikes on the boat. He said that he has been through the footage of the strike, and it does not look "pretty”. He said that, they were trying to ”turn back over the boat" contradicting Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Last week, they were alleging that the two men were trying to radio back to their cartel.&nbsp;The Trump administration is under fire over the September 2 boat strikes. Recently, during a White House cabinet meeting, Trump lashed out at ABC reporter Rachel Scott for rightfully pointing out that he promised to release the clip of the second strike. Trump last week said he would “certainly release” the footage, but claimed Monday he “didn’t say that.”&nbsp;In an interview with the Politico reporter Dasha Burns, he said that the video was “not pretty”. But he nonetheless stood by both Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Admiral Frank M. Bradley. When asked if he thinks Pete Hegseth should testify or not? Trump said, “I don’t care. I would say do it if you want, Pete.”At first, Hegseth claimed that the entire story was fabricated, then he tried to put the blame for the second strike on Admiral Frank Bradley; now, Trump is claiming that he doesn't care.&nbsp;“Uh, well, it looked like they were trying to turn back over the boat, but I don’t get involved in that. That’s up to them. Uh, the admiral that did that was … is a highly respected … as you know, a highly respected man. And we save 25,000 people every time we knock out a boat,” said Trump.Trump claims that they have damaged 92 per cent of the flow of drugs they are now trying to figure out the rest 8 per cent. “And we’re gonna hit ’em on land very soon, too.”&nbsp;

Trump admits boat strike footage is “not pretty,” contradicts Pete Hegseth as pressure mounts over September 2 strikes and unreleased second video.


US President Donald Trump, while talking to Politico, unintentionally revealed new details about the strikes on the boat. He said that he has been through the footage of the strike, and it does not look "pretty”. He said that, they were trying to ”turn back over the boat" contradicting Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Last week, they were alleging that the two men were trying to radio back to their cartel. The Trump administration is under fire over the September 2 boat strikes. Recently, during a White House cabinet meeting, Trump lashed out at ABC reporter Rachel Scott for rightfully pointing out that he promised to release the clip of the second strike. Trump last week said he would “certainly release” the footage, but claimed Monday he “didn’t say that.” In an interview with the Politico reporter Dasha Burns, he said that the video was “not pretty”. But he nonetheless stood by both Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Admiral Frank M. Bradley. When asked if he thinks Pete Hegseth should testify or not? Trump said, “I don’t care. I would say do it if you want, Pete.” At first, Hegseth claimed that the entire story was fabricated, then he tried to put the blame for the second strike on Admiral Frank Bradley; now, Trump is claiming that he doesn't care. “Uh, well, it looked like they were trying to turn back over the boat, but I don’t get involved in that. That’s up to them. Uh, the admiral that did that was … is a highly respected … as you know, a highly respected man. And we save 25,000 people every time we knock out a boat,” said Trump. Trump claims that they have damaged 92 per cent of the flow of drugs they are now trying to figure out the rest 8 per cent. “And we’re gonna hit ’em on land very soon, too.”

Donald Trump dismissed affordability concerns as a Democratic “hoax” at his Pennsylvania rally, praised Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s “machine gun lips”, and repeated xenophobic remarks about immigrants from “shithole countries”. Here’s what he said and why it matters.

Donald Trump spills new details about the second air strike on alleged drug boat

María Corina Machado, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, will not attend the award ceremony in Oslo due to her ongoing hiding from Venezuelan authorities. The Norwegian Nobel Institute confirmed that her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, will accept the award in her place.


Breaking: Machado Won’t Attend Nobel Ceremony, Daughter to Receive Award

U.S. Boat Strikes: Bipartisan lawmakers have called for the release of video footage from a September U.S. military boat strike in the Caribbean, which killed several individuals and sparked debate over its legality. The Department of Defense is currently reviewing whether to release the video, amid growing pressure from Congress for transparency. The footage, which shows the aftermath of the strike and the fate of survivors, has been described as highly controversial, with lawmakers from both parties expressing differing views on its implications.


U.S. Boat Strikes: Bipartisan Lawmakers Back Release of U.S. Boat Strike Video 

Donald Trump conflicts himself on releasing the footage of double-tap strike on Venezuelan boat

President Donald Trump has defended War Secretary Hegseth following a controversial double-strike operation on a Venezuelan boat. This video breaks down the military action, Trump’s comments in support of Hegseth, and the domestic and international reactions to the incident. Stay informed on the unfolding debate over U.S. military operations and accountability in foreign engagements.

Trump Defends War Secretary Hegseth Over Double-Strike on Venezuelan Boat

Venezuela seem to be ramping up its army as the United States ramps up pressure on the country, expanding its military presence in the Caribbean over its crackdown against drug boats in the region. The South American nation swore in 5,600 soldiers on Saturday (Dec 7) as President Nicolas Maduro called for stepping up military recruitment. This comes as US President Donald Trump’s administration has deployed a fleet of warships and the world’s largest aircraft carrier in the region.The US military has carried out deadly strikes on more than 20 vessels allegedly carrying drugs, killing at least 87. Washington has accused Maduro of leading Cartel de los Soles, which it added to its list of Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) last month, claiming that the group works with known outfits like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel to fuel violence and drug trafficking across the region.Meanwhile, the Venezuelan leader, who has been in power since 2013, has denied the claims. He said that Trump seeks to oust him and seize the country’s oil reserves, adding that Venezuelan citizens and the military will resist any such attempt.“Under no circumstances will we allow an invasion by an imperialist force,” Colonel Gabriel Rendon said Saturday during a ceremony at Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s largest military complex, in Caracas. As per official records, Venezuela has about 200,000 troops and 200,000 police officers.Last month, Trump warned that the airspace over and around the country should be treated as closed amid heightened tensions between the two nations. “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers,” Trump had posted on his Truth Social platform, “please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.”Venezuela called the move a ‘colonialist threat’, and reports suggested that Maduro attempted to contact Trump after his social media decree.Earlier, Trump had also suggested that land operations in the country. Reuters reported that the US was set to launch a new phase of operations. The US president said that he will not “rule out” the presence of the US military in the archipelago. The report added that Trump had not made a final decision on the operation at that time.

Last month, Trump warned that the airspace over and around the country should be treated as closed amid heightened tensions between the two nations. 

Venezuela seem to be ramping up its army as the United States ramps up pressure on the country, expanding its military presence in the Caribbean over its crackdown against drug boats in the region. The South American nation swore in 5,600 soldiers on Saturday (Dec 7) as President Nicolas Maduro called for stepping up military recruitment. This comes as US President Donald Trump’s administration has deployed a fleet of warships and the world’s largest aircraft carrier in the region. The US military has carried out deadly strikes on more than 20 vessels allegedly carrying drugs, killing at least 87. Washington has accused Maduro of leading Cartel de los Soles, which it added to its list of Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) last month, claiming that the group works with known outfits like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel to fuel violence and drug trafficking across the region. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan leader, who has been in power since 2013, has denied the claims. He said that Trump seeks to oust him and seize the country’s oil reserves, adding that Venezuelan citizens and the military will resist any such attempt. “Under no circumstances will we allow an invasion by an imperialist force,” Colonel Gabriel Rendon said Saturday during a ceremony at Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s largest military complex, in Caracas. As per official records, Venezuela has about 200,000 troops and 200,000 police officers. Last month, Trump warned that the airspace over and around the country should be treated as closed amid heightened tensions between the two nations. “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers,” Trump had posted on his Truth Social platform, “please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.” Venezuela called the move a ‘colonialist threat’, and reports suggested that Maduro attempted to contact Trump after his social media decree. Earlier, Trump had also suggested that land operations in the country. Reuters reported that the US was set to launch a new phase of operations. The US president said that he will not “rule out” the presence of the US military in the archipelago. The report added that Trump had not made a final decision on the operation at that time.

Last month, Trump warned that the airspace over and around the country should be treated as closed amid heightened tensions between the two nations.&nbsp;

‘Won’t allow invasion by imperialist force’: Venezuela inducts 5,600 troops as tensions with US escalate

U.S.- Venezuela: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has cited the 'fog of war' to defend the controversial US military strike on a Venezuelan drug boat, which resulted in the deaths of several individuals. Hegseth stated that the chaotic nature of combat operations can lead to unintended consequences and that such incidents are sometimes unavoidable. 

US-Venezuela Tensions: Hegseth Defends Strikes on Alleged Drug Boats

Frank Bradley, the Admiral who oversaw the air strike on alleged Venezuelan drug vessels, admitted that it was not heading towards the US, which is in direct contradiction to the claim of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. The strike resulted in 11 casualties.&nbsp;However, according to the US drug enforcement officials, boats from Suriname head towards Europe.&nbsp;After the strike, the US President in post on Truth Social wrote, “The strike occurred while the terrorists were at sea in International waters transporting illegal narcotics, heading to the United States.” Around 86 people have been killed in 22 total strikes this year. Both US President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth insisted that the strikes were necessary to stop the flow of drugs to the United States.Bradley, while briefing the lawmakers on Thursday, said that the boats were heading toward Suriname, on the northern coast of South America, but ultimately could have ended up in the US, which warranted striking the boats, as reported by CNN. According to CNN, Bradley told the lawmakers that two of them who survived the first strike and held on to the wreckage for 40 minutes were waving in the air, meaning they would have surrendered. Every part of the whole process is a gigantic war crime.&nbsp;“The video we saw today showed two shipwrecked individuals who had no means to move, much less pose an immediate threat, and yet they were killed by the United States military,” &nbsp;said Democratic Rep. Jim Himes and Adam Smith on Thursday, following the Bradleys' briefing. According to the Washington Post, the directive was issued by the Secretary of War Pete Hegeseth to the SEAL team in charge of the operation to kill every individual on board. However, Hegseth blamed the “fog of war” for the second strike during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, September 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Admiral Frank Bradley told lawmakers the alleged Venezuelan drug boat struck by the U.S. was heading toward Suriname, contradicting Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth’s claim that it was bound for the US, as criticism mounts over possible war-crime.

Frank Bradley, the Admiral who oversaw the air strike on alleged Venezuelan drug vessels, admitted that it was not heading towards the US, which is in direct contradiction to the claim of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. The strike resulted in 11 casualties. However, according to the US drug enforcement officials, boats from Suriname head towards Europe. After the strike, the US President in post on Truth Social wrote, “The strike occurred while the terrorists were at sea in International waters transporting illegal narcotics, heading to the United States.” Around 86 people have been killed in 22 total strikes this year. Both US President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth insisted that the strikes were necessary to stop the flow of drugs to the United States. Bradley, while briefing the lawmakers on Thursday, said that the boats were heading toward Suriname, on the northern coast of South America, but ultimately could have ended up in the US, which warranted striking the boats, as reported by CNN. According to CNN, Bradley told the lawmakers that two of them who survived the first strike and held on to the wreckage for 40 minutes were waving in the air, meaning they would have surrendered. Every part of the whole process is a gigantic war crime. “The video we saw today showed two shipwrecked individuals who had no means to move, much less pose an immediate threat, and yet they were killed by the United States military,” said Democratic Rep. Jim Himes and Adam Smith on Thursday, following the Bradleys' briefing. According to the Washington Post, the directive was issued by the Secretary of War Pete Hegeseth to the SEAL team in charge of the operation to kill every individual on board. However, Hegseth blamed the “fog of war” for the second strike during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, September 2.

Admiral Frank Bradley told lawmakers the alleged Venezuelan drug boat struck by the U.S. was heading toward Suriname, contradicting Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth’s claim that it was bound for the US, as criticism mounts over possible war crime.

Admiral contradicts Donald Trump's claims, alleged drug boat was not heading to US

Democratic lawmakers are warning they may invoke the War Powers Act in response to actions linked to former President Trump’s approach to Venezuela.

US-Venezuela: Democrat Lawmakers Warn to Invoke War Powers Act Against Trump's Actions in Venezuela

Tensions between the US and Venezuela continue to rise as the Trump administration reports an 85% reduction in maritime drug trafficking in the Caribbean. Trump warns Venezuelan groups against sending “poison” into the United States and signals expanded operations, including potential land actions. Stay updated on this developing story.


US Strikes: Trump Hints at Land Strike on Cartels as Hegseth Says U.S. Backs Drug-Vessel Strikes 

U.S. Vs Venezuela Tensions: President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have defended controversial US military strikes on alleged Venezuelan drug-smuggling vessels, amid mounting scrutiny over a reported second attack that killed survivors. Both leaders stated they were unaware of the follow-up strike, attributing it to the "fog of war," while maintaining the broader anti-narcotics campaign is vital for US safety. 

U.S. Vs Venezuela Tensions: Trump, Hegseth Defend Strike on 'Drug Boat'

The United States has deployed a powerful naval and air armada to the Caribbean, escalating tensions with Venezuela and prompting questions about Washington’s endgame. Advanced fighter jets, destroyers, drones, special operations forces and even a possible nuclear submarine have moved into position near Venezuelan waters. The Trump administration insists it is targeting “narco-terrorists,” but critics say the scale of the deployment suggests broader ambitions, possibly even regime change.


U.S. Forces Seen Offloading Supplies In Puerto Rico Amid Military Buildup Near Venezuela

U.S. Forces Move Military Assets Into The Caribbean Near Venezuela

The White House has confirmed a second strike on a vessel from Venezuela allegedly carrying illegal narcotics. Officials say Admiral Frank Bradley conducted the strike under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s authorization. The strike took place in international waters and was described as self-defense to protect U.S. interests. Critics question the legality, while the UN calls for transparent investigations. Stay updated with the latest U.S.-Venezuela developments.


US-Venezuela tension: US military aircraft movements intensify in the Caribbean

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