Venezuela Delays Inquiry Session Following US Military Strikes Outcry

On Monday, Venezuela’s National Assembly unexpectedly postponed a special session that was supposed to discuss the establishment of a commission aimed at investigating a series of US military hits on vessels accused of drug trafficking. The delay was announced without public explanation, shifting the debate to Tuesday, coinciding with the Assembly’s regular meeting schedule.

This session had been highly anticipated following weeks of escalating discontent regarding US military actions in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Since September, US forces have executed a minimum of 21 attacks on purported drug vessels, resulting in over 80 fatalities, as Washington ramps up its military operations in the region. Families of victims have vocally sought accountability, asserting that many of the deceased had no confirmed criminal ties.

Tensions heightened further after President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that he had engaged in discussions with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. According to two insiders, Trump is set to convene with senior advisers to evaluate the situation regarding Venezuela, adding significant geopolitical weight to an already contentious issue.

National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, who doubles as Maduro’s lead negotiator with the US, declared the special session after conferring with relatives of the deceased. He emphasized that the aim was to protect affected families while promoting a national response to the strikes. The investigation proposal follows a Washington Post article indicating that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had ordered troops to “eliminate everyone aboard” during at least one operation in September.

With the Assembly’s debate now on hold, political tensions are expected to intensify as both the government and citizens seek clarity regarding the investigation’s parameters and objectives. This matter continues to ignite strong public emotions throughout the country, especially in coastal regions most impacted by military activities at sea.