Washington, DC – Two US officials said on Thursday that the United States had seized another oil tanker linked to Venezuela. The move comes ahead of a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the seizure took place in the Caribbean Sea. They did not disclose the name of the vessel or provide further details about its destination or owner. They added that this action is part of an escalating series of US measures targeting Venezuelan oil shipments in recent weeks.
This seizure marks the sixth such operation in a short period, targeting vessels carrying Venezuelan oil or that had previously transported shipments of it. This is part of intensified pressure on Venezuela’s energy sector, a major source of revenue for the government.
These developments come at a time of escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The United States is seeking to support Venezuelan opposition forces and pressure the government through economic and legal means, including restrictions on oil exports and maritime shipping.
Observers believe the timing of the tanker’s seizure, just before Trump’s meeting with Maria Corina Machado, carries political significance. It reflects the US administration’s desire to send a clear message regarding its stance on the Venezuelan crisis. Furthermore, it demonstrates its support for the political transition in the country.
Conversely, the Venezuelan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest seizure. Caracas has previously described such actions as “illegal” and a violation of international law and freedom of navigation.
The United States continues to use Venezuelan oil as a key tool of pressure, given the complexities of the political and economic landscape in Venezuela. International concern is also growing regarding the repercussions of these actions on regional and global energy markets.
