Overview
- Reuters reported that Washington ordered forces to maintain a maritime quarantine of Venezuelan oil for at least two months to intensify economic pressure.
- UN experts called the actions a partial blockade that violates international law and urged the U.S. Congress to halt the campaign and investigate alleged unlawful killings.
- The UN statement cited at least 104 people killed in 28 U.S. attacks on civilian boats since September, while other reports detail more than 20 fast craft sunk.
- The Wall Street Journal reported the Dec. 22 arrival of at least 10 V-22 Ospreys and C-17 transports carrying troops and equipment into the Caribbean.
- U.S. Southern Command declined to discuss movements or operations for security reasons, as U.S. forces continue tanker interdictions including the Centuries and Bella 1 cases.