US Seizes Tanker: Venezuela Oil Dispute Video Released

President Trump previously observed a demonstration of a ship seizure carried out by Navy Seals in October, an event similar to the recent operation involving a Venezuelan tanker. The demonstration was part of a display of naval capabilities celebrating the US Navy’s 250th birthday.

Trump Watched Ship Seizure Demonstration

While accompanying President Trump on a trip to celebrate the US Navy’s 250th birthday, a demonstration of naval capabilities was observed. The president and members of the press were flown by helicopters and Ospreys to the USS George HW Bush, an aircraft carrier, where they watched an hour-long display of naval firepower.

The demonstration included a VBSS – visit, board, search and seizure – exercise. Heavily armed Navy Seals fast-roped from helicopters onto the deck of a ship, methodically clearing it with weapons drawn. Simultaneously, another helicopter provided cover fire with machine guns.

This procedure closely resembles the tactics used in the recent video of the Venezuelan tanker seizure. During the October visit, Trump spoke with sailors and expressed his approval of the demonstration.

Now, a VBSS procedure has been carried out in a real-world operation.