Authorities in Venezuela have arrested several U.S. citizens since the United States began increasing pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro, according to a report from The New York Times citing an anonymous Venezuelan official.
Rising Tensions and Arrests
While some of those detained have been charged with legitimate criminal offenses, the U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, is considering declaring at least two of the prisoners as illegally detained, the source stated.
Among those arrested are three individuals with both Venezuelan and U.S. citizenship, as well as two U.S. citizens with no known ties to Venezuela. One of the two Americans potentially facing a designation as illegally detained is reportedly James Luckey-Lange, a 28-year-old from New York who was traveling in Venezuela in December.
‘Lanza del Sur’ and U.S. Actions
These arrests come as part of “Operation Southern Lance,” or ‘Lanza del Sur,’ in which Washington has reportedly destroyed nearly 40 vessels and caused the deaths of approximately 110 people, while also seizing tankers carrying Venezuelan oil. These actions are intended to economically pressure the Maduro government.
U.S. officials believe the Maduro government may be using detained Americans as bargaining chips in bilateral negotiations. Following Trump’s return to office, 17 individuals with U.S. citizenship or residency were released by Caracas after negotiations with Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the increased U.S. pressure on Venezuela?
According to the source, the U.S. campaign of pressure against the government of Nicolás Maduro is linked to accusations that Maduro and his allies are leading the “Cartel of the Suns,” and a desire for Maduro’s removal from power.
How many Americans are currently detained in Venezuela?
The source states that several U.S. citizens have been arrested, specifically mentioning three with dual citizenship and two without known ties to Venezuela, but does not provide a precise total number.
What is “Operation Southern Lance”?
“Operation Southern Lance,” or ‘Lanza del Sur,’ is a U.S. military operation in the Caribbean aimed at combating drug trafficking from Colombia and Venezuela, and has involved the destruction of vessels and seizure of oil tankers.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the U.S. will formally declare any of the detained Americans as illegally held, and how Venezuela will respond to such a designation. Further escalation of tensions, or a renewed push for diplomatic negotiations, are both possible outcomes.
