UPDATE: In a dramatic escalation, US forces have seized a second oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, just days after President Donald Trump announced a strict blockade of sanctioned oil movements. The operation occurred early Saturday morning, highlighting the intensifying pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as the US seeks to curb illicit oil trade linked to narco-terrorism.
The US Coast Guard, assisted by the Department of Defense, intercepted the crude oil tanker named Centuries, which was recently spotted near the Venezuelan coast. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the operation, emphasizing that the vessel was last docked in Venezuela. She shared an unclassified video on social media showing a US helicopter landing personnel on the tanker.
This operation marks the second seizure in less than two weeks, following the first incident on December 10. During that event, the US seized a vessel named Skipper. The rapid succession of these actions underscores the urgency with which the US is addressing the flow of oil that funds illegal activities in the region.
“The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco-terrorism in the region,” Noem stated on X. “We will find you, and we will stop you.”
Officials have indicated that the boarding of the Centuries was a “consented boarding,” meaning the tanker stopped voluntarily and allowed US forces to board. However, it remains unclear whether the vessel was under US sanctions at the time of the seizure.
This aggressive stance from the US comes as President Trump has ramped up his rhetoric against Maduro, suggesting that the long-time leader’s time in power is dwindling. The latest moves are part of a broader strategy to tighten the screws on Venezuela, which has been grappling with a severe economic crisis and political instability.
The implications of these operations are significant not only for US-Venezuela relations but also for the global oil market. As tensions rise, observers are closely watching how the Maduro administration will respond to this latest act of defiance.
Next steps include potential further actions by the US in the region, as officials have made it clear that they are committed to blocking the flow of illicit oil. As this situation develops, the international community remains on high alert for any responses from the Venezuelan government.
This unfolding situation is critical as it directly affects the stability of Venezuela and the broader geopolitical landscape in Latin America. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to monitor this urgent situation.
