The United States has successfully seized two tankers allegedly involved in Venezuelan oil exports during separate operations in the North Atlantic and the Caribbean. The first tanker, the Russian-flagged Marinera, evaded capture for nearly two weeks before US forces intercepted it, with logistical assistance from the UK Royal Navy.
The second vessel, M/T Sophia, was boarded in the Caribbean on the grounds of engaging in illicit activities. These operations are part of the US's broader strategy to restrict Venezuelan crude oil sales, which have been a critical aspect of the country's economy.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized, The blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in FULL EFFECT - anywhere in the world. Consequently, Moscow has condemned the seizure and called for the humane treatment of Russian citizens aboard the tanker.
The US has classified the Marinera as a stateless vessel after detecting it using a false flag. This gives the US legal grounds under international maritime law to board it. The White House noted that the vessel had a judicial order against it, facilitating its seizure.
In an environment of heightened tension, Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that the Venezuelan leadership appears willing to cooperate with the US to avoid economic collapse in exchange for oil revenues. Negotiations are ongoing, as the US plans to manage post-seizure oil sales in a manner that purportedly benefits the Venezuelan populace.
Preparations for congressional oversight on any military operations in Venezuela are in process, amidst bipartisan support and debate on US military involvement in the region. The situation is further complicated by China's condemnation of US actions, warning of risks to global energy security.
The second vessel, M/T Sophia, was boarded in the Caribbean on the grounds of engaging in illicit activities. These operations are part of the US's broader strategy to restrict Venezuelan crude oil sales, which have been a critical aspect of the country's economy.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized, The blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in FULL EFFECT - anywhere in the world. Consequently, Moscow has condemned the seizure and called for the humane treatment of Russian citizens aboard the tanker.
The US has classified the Marinera as a stateless vessel after detecting it using a false flag. This gives the US legal grounds under international maritime law to board it. The White House noted that the vessel had a judicial order against it, facilitating its seizure.
In an environment of heightened tension, Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that the Venezuelan leadership appears willing to cooperate with the US to avoid economic collapse in exchange for oil revenues. Negotiations are ongoing, as the US plans to manage post-seizure oil sales in a manner that purportedly benefits the Venezuelan populace.
Preparations for congressional oversight on any military operations in Venezuela are in process, amidst bipartisan support and debate on US military involvement in the region. The situation is further complicated by China's condemnation of US actions, warning of risks to global energy security.
