Trump warns Maduro as US intensifies crackdown on Venezuelan tankers
NN ONLINE:
President Donald Trump on Monday warned Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro against “playing tough” as the US Coast Guard stepped up efforts to intercept sanctioned oil tankers in the Caribbean, part of the Republican administration’s escalating pressure campaign on Caracas.
Trump, joined by top aides including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, said he is prepared to further intensify the four-month campaign, which began to curb the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela but has since expanded. “If he wants to do something, if he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’ll ever be able to play tough,” Trump said, while announcing plans for a new large Navy warship.
The Coast Guard continued a second day of pursuit of a sanctioned tanker the administration claims is part of Venezuela’s “dark fleet” used to evade US sanctions. The vessel is reportedly under a false flag and subject to a US judicial seizure order. This marks the third tanker targeted; previous seizures included the Panama-flagged Centuries and Skipper tankers.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the operations aim to send a global message that Maduro’s alleged illegal activities “cannot stand” and that the US will defend its interests.
Meanwhile, Russia began evacuating families of diplomats from Venezuela amid concerns over rising tensions, while Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil said Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed support for Caracas against the US blockade of sanctioned tankers.
On Venezuelan beaches near the El Palito refinery, residents noted the stark contrast with past years. Once bustling with multiple tankers and festive celebrations, the area now sees fewer vessels and families struggling with rising food prices. The Venezuelan National Assembly, controlled by Maduro’s party, on Monday approved a measure criminalizing acts linked to tanker seizures, with penalties of fines and up to 20 years in prison for offenses such as promoting or participating in “acts of piracy or blockades.”
Under Trump’s orders, the Defense Department continues strikes on vessels alleged to carry drugs toward the US, with at least 105 people killed in 29 strikes since September, prompting criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups over possible extrajudicial killings.