Maduro blasts U.S. seizure of Venezuela oil tanker as act of ‘naval piracy’ - The Hindu
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro strongly criticised the United States after American authorities seized a Venezuelan-linked oil tanker, calling the move an act of modern-day naval piracy. The vessel, reportedly carrying crude for international buyers, was intercepted as part of U.S. sanctions enforcement, a step Washington argues is necessary to curb what it sees as illegal oil shipments. Maduro, however, insisted the seizure violated international maritime norms and represented continued U.S. pressure on Venezuela’s economy. He accused Washington of interfering in the country’s sovereign trade and warned that such actions would not deter Venezuela from defending its resources. The incident has added strain to already tense relations between the two nations, with Caracas describing the seizure as politically motivated. Analysts note that the dispute highlights the ongoing struggle over sanctions, global oil markets, and Venezuela’s attempts to work around economic restrictions imposed by the U.S.
The Key points
- Maduro accuses the U.S. of seizing a Venezuelan-linked oil tanker.
- He labels the action “naval piracy” and a violation of maritime norms.
- The U.S. claims the interception enforces existing sanctions.
- The tanker was reportedly transporting Venezuelan crude.
- Venezuela says the seizure harms its lawful international trade.
- Maduro argues the move reflects ongoing U.S. economic pressure.
- Caracas insists it will continue defending national resources.
- The incident further strains Venezuela-U.S. diplomatic relations.
- Officials call the action politically motivated and unlawful.
- The dispute underscores wider tensions over sanctions and oil markets.
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