US Launches Major Operations to Seize Linked Venezuelan Oil Tankers

Fri Jan 09 2026 02:27:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant move to curb illicit Venezuelan oil exports, the US has seized two tankers suspected of connection to sanctioned activities in the region. This operation follows tensions relating to Venezuela's oil resources among global powers.

The United States has successfully seized two tankers linked to Venezuelan oil, including the Marinera in the North Atlantic and the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean. These actions, backed by the British Navy, are part of a broader effort to enforce sanctions against Venezuela. The US Defense Secretary emphasized that sanctions against Venezuelan oil will remain in force worldwide.

The United States announced the seizure of two tankers allegedly involved in exporting Venezuelan oil during coordinated military operations. The actions occurred in the North Atlantic and the Caribbean, reaffirming the US's commitment to curtail illicit oil trading linked to Venezuela.

US forces pursued and boarded the Russian-flagged Marinera after monitoring it for nearly two weeks as it sailed through waters between Iceland and Scotland. Concurrently, the M/T Sophia was seized in the Caribbean under charges of engaging in illicit activities.

These significant maneuvers arrive shortly after the US special forces apprehended Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a swift operation at his Caracas residence, signaling intensified efforts to restrict Venezuela's oil exports.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on social media asserting that the blockade against sanctioned Venezuelan oil remains firmly in place globally. Moscow has condemned the seizure of the Marinera and called on the US to ensure proper treatment for the Russian crew onboard.

The Russian Transport Ministry indicated their permission for the vessel to sail under the Russian flag, highlighting the assertiveness of international maritime laws. The US characterized the Marinera as a 'stateless' vessel due to its alleged false flag issue, thus permitting its boarding under international law.

In separate statements, Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that Venezuela is cooperating with US authorities regarding the second tanker seizure, with expectations that such cooperation may stabilize the Venezuelan economy amidst international sanctions. President Donald Trump had previously indicated that Venezuela could supply the US with significant amounts of oil as part of ongoing negotiations.

Critics, including officials from China, have raised alarm over US actions, warning that they threaten global energy security. The US is assertively moving to control oil sales from Venezuela, potentially impacting future energy dynamics on the international stage.