The Duran Podcast Tanker attacks & Pirates of the Caribbean
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Dec 11, 2025 The discussion kicks off with the seizure of a tanker off Venezuela's coast, raising questions about its legality and motives. The hosts delve into the implications of these actions, labeling them as potential piracy and acts of war. They explore the connection between rising tensions and global oil trade, assessing risks for inflation and international shipping. Additionally, they discuss the political ramifications for U.S. forces and the broader agenda for regime change in Venezuela, along with ramifications for Cuba and Russia's responses.
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Operation's Official Justification Undermined
- The US publicly framed its Caribbean operation as anti-drug but seized a large oil tanker, undermining that justification.
- Alexander Christoforou argues the operation is evolving beyond its original pretext and needs a new explanation.
Seizing Ships Can Constitute Piracy
- Seizing commercial ships on the high seas amounts to piracy and, if done by a state, an act of war unless justified by wartime.
- Patrick Henningsen emphasizes international law implications and historical US opposition to similar practices.
Naval Presence Could Be A Blockade Strategy
- The US presence off Venezuela could be a de facto unannounced sea blockade aimed at choking Venezuela's and Cuba's economies.
- Alexander Christoforou warns such a blockade would be an act of war and serve regime-change objectives.