CARACAS, Venezuela — January 8, 2026
The United States has seized multiple oil tankers linked to Venezuela, escalating international tensions following a deadly U.S. military operation in Caracas that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Venezuela’s Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello stated that at least 100 people were killed during the January 3 operation, which he described as a large-scale U.S. assault on the capital. According to Venezuelan officials, Maduro sustained a leg injury during the raid, while Flores suffered a head injury.
The Venezuelan military later released the names of 23 soldiers killed in the operation, alleging they were executed “in cold blood.” Cuban authorities separately reported that 32 Cuban military and intelligence personnel stationed in Venezuela also died during the attack.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced a week of national mourning for the fallen military personnel, calling the losses unprecedented. In a televised address, Cabello praised Rodríguez’s leadership and resilience during what he described as one of the most severe crises in the country’s modern history.
The military confrontation has rapidly expanded beyond Venezuela’s borders. The Trump administration has defended the operation and subsequent tanker seizures as part of a broader effort to enforce sanctions and assert control over Venezuelan oil assets. US officials say the strategy is intended to prevent oil revenue from reaching hostile governments and sanctioned entities.
Russia has sharply condemned the seizures, particularly after one Russian-flagged tanker was taken into US custody. Moscow accused Washington of violating international maritime norms and responded by deploying naval assets to the region.
The United States has indicated it may oversee Venezuelan oil sales for an extended period, signaling a significant shift in global energy control dynamics. Analysts warn that the unfolding standoff could further destabilize energy markets and deepen geopolitical divisions.
