Venezuela Accuses U.S. of Illegally Boarding Fishing Vessel in Caribbean

Venezuela has accused the United States of illegally boarding a Venezuelan fishing vessel in the Caribbean, escalating tensions between the two nations. According to Venezuela's Foreign Ministry, on Friday, U.S. Navy personnel from the USS Jason Dunham boarded a Venezuelan fishing boat within Venezuela's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The ministry stated that 18 armed agents occupied the vessel for eight hours, preventing communication and normal activities of the nine fishermen on board.

The U.S. official disputed claims from the Venezuelan foreign ministry that the search took eight hours and they contended the boat was in international waters.

Venezuela's Foreign Minister Yván Gil condemned the operation, describing it as "illegal" and "illegitimate," and warned that Venezuela will defend its sovereignty against any "provocation."

This incident follows a recent U.S. military strike on a vessel alleged to be carrying drugs from Venezuela, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. President Donald Trump stated that the vessel was operated by members of the Tren de Aragua gang, which he claims is linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Venezuela's Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello accused the U.S. government of murder, characterizing its version of events as "a tremendous lie" and questioning the identification of the individuals on board as gang members.

The U.S. has intensified its military presence in the Caribbean, citing efforts to combat drug trafficking. However, these actions have been met with strong opposition from Venezuela, which views them as direct provocations and violations of its sovereignty.