Venezuela sends warships to escort tankers past a US blockade, raising risks of confrontation in the Caribbean, reports Maritime Executive.
Venezuela has dispatched warships to escort departing crude tankers past what it refers to as a US blockade, according to Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive. This move, ordered by President Nicolas Maduro, heightens the risk of confrontation with the US Navy, which has increased its presence in the Caribbean.
The New York Times reported that these escorts have already accompanied tankers bound for Asia. Analysts caution that any attempt at interdiction, such as the recent boarding of the tanker Skipper by the US Coast Guard, could lead to armed clashes rather than peaceful compliance.
International law defines a naval blockade as an act of war; however, Washington has not officially declared war on Venezuela. The blockade remains partial, with merchant ships continuing to trade. TankerTrackers.com has identified dozens of sanctioned tankers in Venezuelan waters, including 26 suitable for exports, with 15 already loaded with crude.
The White House has not clarified the extent of its blockade, and critics in Washington are questioning the legality of the campaign. Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that President Trump lacks the authority to use military force without congressional approval and warned of potential bipartisan action to block unauthorized operations.
The US military has been conducting operations against drug traffickers in the region for several months. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced that a vessel carrying cocaine was destroyed in the Eastern Pacific this week, resulting in the deaths of four individuals.
