The United States is interdicting and seizing a vessel in international waters off the coast of Venezuela, following President Trump’s announcement of a “blockade” against all sanctioned oil tankers linked to Venezuela. This is the second seizure in recent weeks, coinciding with a notable U. S. military presence in the region. U. S. officials, speaking anonymously, did not disclose the specific location of the operation, but the Coast Guard is leading it. The Coast Guard and Pentagon directed inquiries to the White House, which has not yet responded.
Since the U. S. seized a sanctioned oil tanker last week, an effective embargo has been observed, preventing vessels loaded with Venezuelan oil from leaving the area due to the risk of capture. This has led to a significant decline in Venezuelan crude exports. While many oil vessels are sanctioned, some transporting oil from Venezuela, Iran, and Russia are not. U. S. company Chevron continues to transport Venezuelan oil with authorized ships.
China remains the largest buyer of Venezuelan crude, accounting for about 4% of its imports. If the embargo remains, the reduction in crude supply could lead to higher oil prices. Since U. S. energy sanctions on Venezuela began in 2019, buyers have relied on a “shadow fleet” of tankers that disguise their location. Currently, a significant number of tankers in Venezuelan waters are part of this fleet, with many under U. S. sanctions. Trump’s actions have included military strikes on vessels near Venezuela, raising concerns from President Maduro, who claims the U. S. aims to take control of Venezuela’s vast oil resources.
With information from Reuters
