Cuban Officials Condemn US Seizure of Oil Tanker Amid Broader Trump Administration Updates
Cuban officials have denounced the US seizure of the Skipper oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast, describing the action as piracy, maritime terrorism, and a serious violation of international law that harms Cuba. The Skipper reportedly carried nearly 2 million barrels of Venezuela’s heavy crude, according to PDVSA internal data, with its listed destination being Matanzas, Cuba. Two days after departure, about 50,000 barrels were off-loaded to another ship bound for Cuba while the Skipper headed east toward Asia. Cuban foreign ministry representatives said the seizure is part of a broader US escalation aimed at hampering Venezuela’s right to freely trade its resources, including hydrocarbons with Cuba, and intensifying the US maximum-pressure policy. The New York Times cited the PDVSA internal data regarding the cargo and movements of the Skipper.
In related political news, two Venture Global founders purchased over $12 million worth of shares each in March, shortly after a meeting with White House officials. Subsequently, a regulatory permit was granted that expanded their LNG business in Europe; Democrats have called for an investigation, while the involved parties deny any wrongdoing. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized former President Trump’s AI executive order, accusing Trump and his adviser of grift and corruption rather than making bona fide policy.
Additionally, Afghan immigrants and advocates are opposing the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, arguing that it punishes hundreds of thousands for the actions of one man. Trump also held a roadshow in Pennsylvania to reassure voters about the economy. During the event, he publicly taunted President Biden with nicknames, contrasting his approach with Bidenomics and the broader campaign messaging.
