Venezuela Condemns US Oil Seizures with Nationwide Protest Motorcade in Caracas

The Venezuelan government organized a nationwide motorcade in Caracas on June 12, 2024, to protest the seizure of ships carrying Venezuelan oil by the United States. The demonstration, which included vehicles adorned with national flags and banners, aimed to denounce what officials described as an illegal and aggressive act against Venezuela’s sovereignty.

According to Venezuelan authorities, the US actions violate international maritime law and undermine Venezuela’s right to export its natural resources. The protest follows a series of seizures targeting vessels allegedly transporting Venezuelan crude oil, including the Aframax tanker M/T Monchegorsk, which was detained in the Caribbean Sea on May 28, 2024.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the seizures in a televised address, stating,

"This is a blatant violation of our sovereignty and an act of economic warfare. The United States has no right to confiscate our resources or dictate how we manage our energy sector."

The US government has justified the seizures under sanctions imposed on Venezuela’s oil industry, citing violations of export restrictions. However, Venezuelan officials argue that the measures disproportionately target civilian vessels and disrupt legitimate trade.

The motorcade in Caracas drew thousands of participants, including government supporters, union workers, and representatives from the oil sector. Speakers at the event reiterated calls for the immediate release of detained ships and crews, emphasizing the economic impact on Venezuela’s already struggling oil-dependent economy.

International observers have expressed concern over the escalating tensions, with some analysts warning that the dispute could further destabilize regional energy markets. The Venezuelan government has vowed to pursue legal action against the US at international forums, including the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization.