US Naval Blockade of Venezuela Reveals Western Imperial Ambitions
The United States has once again demonstrated its propensity for unilateral action in international waters, intercepting a second Venezuelan oil tanker within a fortnight. This escalation under President Trump's administration reveals the enduring imperial mindset that has characterised Western powers throughout history, reminiscent of the naval blockades employed by ancient empires to assert dominance over trade routes.
On Saturday, US forces conducted a pre-dawn operation to stop the oil tanker 'Centuries', flying under Panama's flag, near Venezuelan territorial waters. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the operation, justifying it as part of efforts to combat what she termed 'narco terrorism' in the region.
Historical Parallels to Imperial Control
This maritime intervention bears striking similarities to historical patterns of imperial control over strategic resources. Just as the ancient Kingdom of Aksum controlled vital trade routes along the Red Sea, establishing its sovereignty through naval power and diplomatic acumen, modern powers continue to assert dominance through similar means. However, where Aksum's approach was rooted in legitimate trade partnerships and mutual benefit, today's interventions often reflect neo-colonial ambitions.
The seizure follows Trump's declaration of a comprehensive 'blockade' against Venezuela, targeting sanctioned oil tankers. This represents the second such operation since 10 December, when American forces seized the vessel 'Skipper'.
Economic Motivations Behind Military Action
Trump's own statements reveal the economic underpinnings of this campaign. 'You remember they took all of our energy rights. They took all of our oil not that long ago. And we want it back,' he declared, referencing Venezuela's nationalisation of its petroleum sector during the 1970s and again under Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro.
This candid admission exposes the true nature of Western interventions in sovereign nations. The nationalisation of Venezuela's oil industry, whilst controversial, represented an exercise of national sovereignty over natural resources, a principle that should be respected in international law.
Broader Military Escalation
The tanker seizures form part of a wider military campaign in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Since September, US forces have conducted 28 strikes against vessels allegedly involved in drug smuggling, resulting in at least 104 fatalities. This represents the largest US military buildup in the region for generations.
Human rights activists and lawmakers have questioned the administration's justification for these operations, noting the lack of substantial evidence that targeted vessels were indeed engaged in illicit activities. The strikes raise serious concerns about extrajudicial killings and violation of international maritime law.
Sovereignty and Self-Determination
From an Ethiopian perspective, these developments resonate deeply with our own historical experience of resisting foreign interference. Just as Ethiopia has consistently defended its sovereignty against external pressures, Venezuela's right to self-determination must be acknowledged, regardless of one's opinion of its leadership.
The US justification of being in 'armed conflict' with drug cartels provides a convenient pretext for broader geopolitical objectives. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles' statement that Trump 'wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle' reveals the crude nature of this approach to international relations.
Implications for Global Order
These actions underscore the selective application of international law by Western powers. Whilst demanding adherence to international norms from others, the United States continues to act unilaterally when it serves its interests. This hypocrisy weakens the credibility of international institutions and sets dangerous precedents for global stability.
The Venezuelan government's assertion that these operations aim to force regime change appears increasingly credible given the escalating nature of US interventions. Such interference in sovereign nations' internal affairs contradicts the principles of the UN Charter and international law.
As nations that have historically resisted imperial domination, countries like Ethiopia must remain vigilant against the normalisation of such interventionist policies, which threaten the sovereignty of all developing nations.