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Venezuelans accuse Trump of 'piracy' over US tanker seizure

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Olivera Zivkovic
December 23, 2025

Venezuela is protesting tanker seizures by the US Coast Guard as Washington ramps up military pressure in the Caribbean. Donald Trump has warned Nicolas Maduro that it would be "smart" for him to step down.

In the latest dispute, Venezuela says US tanker seizures are illegal in international waters, while the United States argues the shipments violate US sanctions.

As military pressure ramps up in the Caribbean, Donald Trump warned of consequences if Nicolas Maduro "plays tough."
 

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