Caracas, Venezuela, 2 December (H.S.): The Venezuelan National Assembly suspended its extraordinary session on Monday to postpone the formation of a commission investigating the deadly US military strikes targeting alleged drug-ferrying vessels off Venezuela’s coast in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean. The session was rescheduled for Tuesday, amid heightened political and diplomatic tensions between Caracas and Washington.Since September, the US military has conducted at least 21 strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats in the region, resulting in at least 83 fatalities, according to various reports.

However, Caracas condemns the attacks, labeling them as acts of aggression and psychological warfare aimed at undermining Venezuelan sovereignty.President Nicolas Maduro addressed thousands of supporters, asserting Venezuela’s rejection of a “slave’s peace,” emphasizing the country’s demand for peace with sovereignty, equality, and freedom.

Caracas accuses Washington of seeking regime change under the guise of anti-drug operations, citing the expanded US naval presence and designation of a Maduro-linked drug cartel as a terrorist group.The postponed investigation follows public accusations based on a Washington Post article alleging that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the killings of all aboard during one of the attacks in September.

National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, Maduro’s top negotiator with the US, met with families of the victims, stating the probe aims to ensure accountability.The ongoing military buildup and intensifying strikes have amplified fears of escalating conflict, even as diplomatic channels remain open. Tensions remain palpable as Washington maintains pressure, while Venezuela strengthens its military preparedness and asserts its sovereignty.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar