Venezuelan Parliament Delays Probe into Alleged US Deadly Attacks on Vessels; Trump, Maduro Discuss

Venezuela Postpones Key Probe into Alleged US Maritime Attacks

The Venezuelan National Assembly has unexpectedly postponed a critical session intended to establish a commission investigating alleged deadly attacks by the United States administration. Initially scheduled for Monday, December 1st, the extraordinary debate concerning strikes against suspected drug trafficking vessels off Venezuela's coast and in the eastern Pacific Ocean was rescheduled for Tuesday, the assembly's regular debate day, without an official explanation for the delay.

Escalating Tensions and Fatal Strikes

This development unfolds amidst heightened tensions in the region. The U.S. has reportedly conducted at least 21 strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific since September. These operations have led to the tragic deaths of at least 83 individuals and are understood to be part of an escalating military buildup by Washington.

High-Level Diplomatic Engagements

Simultaneously, diplomatic activity continues behind the scenes. President Donald Trump is scheduled to convene with his senior advisors to discuss the situation in Venezuela. This meeting follows his recent confirmation of a conversation with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, suggesting ongoing high-level engagements despite the public rhetoric.

The Call for an Investigation

The initiative for the investigation originated from National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, who also serves as Maduro's chief negotiator with Washington. Rodriguez announced Monday's now-postponed session after meeting with the grieving relatives of those killed in the maritime incidents. He underscored that the probe aimed to safeguard these families and seek accountability.

Furthermore, Rodriguez indicated that the investigation would draw heavily upon a Washington Post article. This publication reportedly alleged that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a controversial order to eliminate everyone aboard a vessel during a September attack, adding a significant layer of controversy to the ongoing tensions.