Why it matters:
The Venezuelan government says that at least 14 people were killed in two fishing boats targeted by U.S. forces. The incident represents a grave escalation and demands international scrutiny.
The big picture:
U.S. President Donald Trump previously stated on Truth Social that U.S. forces in the Caribbean had intercepted a drug-laden vessel, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. He described the operation as a “deadly direct strike” ordered under his command within the jurisdiction of U.S. Southern Command, which spans 31 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean.
What they’re saying:
“The use of missiles and nuclear weapons to kill unarmed fishermen in small boats is a crime against humanity,” Venezuela’s Attorney General, Tarek William Saab, said in the statement.
Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López condemned the U.S. actions as an “undeclared war,” urging heightened operational readiness among Venezuela’s armed forces.
He also referenced recent Israeli attacks on Doha, capital of Qatar, a U.S. ally and host of American military bases, as a warning sign of broader regional instability.
Go deeper:
Venezuela Launches Caribbean Military Drills
Hossein Amiri - Hossein Vaez
