'Stolen Oil Must Be Returned To US': JD Vance Defends Strikes On Venezuela

US Vice President JD Vance has strongly defended Washington’s actions against Venezuela, saying President Donald Trump had repeatedly offered chances to de-escalate before ordering a major operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

In a post on X, Vance said the White House had been clear about its demands from the beginning, particularly on drug trafficking and oil-related disputes.

“The president offered multiple off-ramps, bu was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says," Vance wrote.

He also praised the role of US forces involved in the operation, calling it a major success.

“Kudos to our brave special operators who pulled off a truly impressive operation," he added.

In a follow-up post, Vance addressed criticism from those questioning the legality of the US action. He argued that Maduro’s legal situation in the United States justified the move and dismissed claims that the operation violated international norms.

“And PSA for everyone saying this was ‘illegal’," Vance wrote.

“Maduro has multiple indictments in the United States for narcoterrorism. You don’t get to avoid justice for drug trafficking in the United States because you live in a palace in Caracas."

Vance’s remarks came hours after Trump announced that the United States had carried out what he described as a “large-scale strike" against Venezuela, an operation conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies. Trump said Maduro had been captured and flown out of the country, with further details to be shared later.

The comments highlight the firm stance taken by senior US leaders as tensions between Washington and Caracas reach a critical point. US officials have long accused Maduro’s government of links to drug trafficking and organised crime, allegations that Venezuela has repeatedly denied.

Vance’s statements underline the administration’s position that Maduro’s status as Venezuela’s leader does not place him beyond the reach of US law, reinforcing the message that legal accountability remains central to Washington’s actions.

The situation has triggered intense debate across diplomatic and legal circles worldwide. Supporters of the US move argue that it sends a clear signal that long standing accusations tied to criminal activity will no longer be ignored. They say the action reflects years of frustration over failed negotiations, broken promises, and what Washington views as repeated acts of defiance by the Venezuelan leadership.

Critics, however, warn that the operation could deepen instability in the region. Some analysts believe the capture of Maduro may lead to unpredictable political consequences inside Venezuela, including power struggles and civil unrest. Others question how allied nations will respond, especially those that have previously called for dialogue rather than force. These concerns continue to fuel discussion across global media outlets.

Within the United States, reactions have been divided along political lines. Supporters of the administration praise the decision as decisive and overdue, framing it as a strong stand against drug trafficking networks. Opponents argue that the long term costs could outweigh the short term gains, particularly if tensions escalate further or draw in neighboring countries. The debate has already spilled into Congress and public forums.

As more details are expected to emerge, international attention remains fixed on Washington’s next steps. Observers are closely watching how the US plans to handle legal proceedings, diplomatic fallout, and regional security concerns. For now, the administration appears firm in its stance, signaling that accountability and enforcement remain central to its foreign policy approach toward Venezuela.

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