Today in Focus Why is Trump attacking Venezuelan boats? – The Latest
14 snips
Dec 11, 2025 
Devika Bhat, deputy editor of international news at the Guardian, dives into the recent seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker by US forces. She discusses the escalating US military actions against Nicolás Maduro’s government and the implications of this tactic, framed under anti-drug operations. Devika also examines Trump’s controversial plans for the stolen oil and the broader risks of military conflict. With regional tensions rising, she highlights the Caribbean's alertness to the US military's growing presence.
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Dramatic Helicopter Seizure Signals Escalation
- The US publicly released helicopter-boarding footage to show an extraordinary seizure of a large oil tanker near Venezuela.
- Devika Bhat says this operation marks a notable escalation from prior smaller boat strikes by US forces.
Anti-Drug Rationale Underpins Strikes
- The US claims recent strikes target narco boats bringing fentanyl and cocaine to the US.
- Devika Bhat notes these airstrikes on boats have killed over 80 people in about 22 strikes since September.
Bipartisan Congressional Alarm
- US senators from both parties warned the actions risk leading toward war with Venezuela.
- Devika Bhat says Congress is increasingly uneasy about military escalation in the region.