The US is tightening the noose around Venezuela. An oil tanker was seized

The US seized a tanker off the coast of Venezuela, Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing two American officials. Bloomberg reported that the tanker was subject to sanctions.

Reuters sources said the operation was led by the US Coast Guard. It is not known what tanker was intercepted or exactly where the action took place.

The Coast Guard responded to direct questions about the matter to the White House, which has not yet commented on the reports.

The Americans have been increasing pressure on the Venezuelan authorities for weeks. US President Donald Trump said in a recent interview for the Politico website that the days of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro “are numbered”, but did not reveal his goal and strategy towards this country. At the same time, he refused to rule out a land invasion of Venezuela and suggested he might use force against Mexico and Colombia. (PAP)

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