The Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) intercepted a foreign vessel conducting unauthorized scientific research in Venezuelan territorial waters, near the Delta of the Orinoco river. This was announced by the Minister for Defense Vladimir Padrino, who denounced the vessel’s unauthorized presence in an area that is indisputably Venezuelan, emphasizing that these are not disputed waters.
Minister Padrino explained that the vessel, painted gray and bearing military markings, was detected 50 miles from the Orinoco Delta, within Venezuela’s exclusive economic zone. He described the situation as «very suspicious,» questioning the vessel’s intention in venturing so close to the mouth of the Orinoco River without proper permission from Venezuelan authorities.
Given the situation, the Bolivarian Navy proceeded to tow the vessel to a Venezuelan port for a thorough inspection, despite initial resistance from the crew. This action reaffirms Venezuela’s maritime sovereignty and the determination of its armed forces to protect its resources and borders.
This incident underscores the constant vigilance maintained by the FANB over its maritime spaces. The Venezuelan government reiterates its commitment to defending its territorial integrity and warns of the consequences of any unauthorized activity in its jurisdictional waters.