US Seizes Fifth Oil Tanker as Pressure on Venezuela Intensifies
The United States has seized another oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea, marking the fifth such operation as Washington intensifies pressure on vessels accused of violating sanctions against Venezuela. US forces said the latest interception was carried out without incident.
The move comes amid a declared blockade on sanctioned oil shipments following the abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. US officials have pledged to maintain military operations targeting oil transport linked to sanctioned networks.
The seizure follows earlier actions against multiple tankers, including one sailing under a Russian flag. US authorities have indicated that crew members may face prosecution for failing to comply with coastguard orders.
Washington says the ongoing blockade is meant to ensure that no vessel involved in sanctioned oil trade can operate freely. The US has also urged Venezuela to reduce its ties with Russia and China as part of broader pressure efforts.
The operations have drawn strong criticism from other countries and international experts, who argue the seizures violate international maritime law. Despite this, the US administration has made clear it intends to keep naval forces deployed in the region and continue enforcing its measures.
