US Challenges Venezuelan Oil Exports with Seizure of Two Tankers

Fri Jan 09 2026 04:00:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant move to curb Venezuelan oil exports, the US has seized two tankers allegedly linked to illicit activities, amidst growing tensions with Russia over maritime jurisdiction.

The United States seized two tankers associated with Venezuela’s oil industry in operations conducted in the North Atlantic and Caribbean. The first tanker, Marinera, was apprehended after a prolonged pursuit, while the second, M/T Sophia, was also accused of illicit operations. The US aims to restrict Venezuelan oil exports, claiming the vessels were part of a 'shadow fleet'. These actions drew condemnation from Russia, which argued for proper treatment of its nationals onboard. The seizures coincide with US efforts to manage Venezuela’s oil resources amidst heightened global scrutiny.

The United States says it has seized two tankers linked to Venezuelan oil exports in back-to-back operations in the North Atlantic and the Caribbean.

US forces boarded the Russian-flagged Marinera after a pursuit lasting almost two weeks as it travelled through waters between Iceland and Scotland. The British Navy provided logistical support.

A second tanker - the M/T Sophia - was accused by the US of conducting illicit activities and boarded in the Caribbean.

The incidents follow a US operation that reportedly included the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro just days prior.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the ongoing blockade against Venezuelan oil, which remains in full effect globally.

Russia condemned the boardings, insisting that the US must ensure the safety of its nationals aboard the seized vessels.

The US claims the Marinera had been illegally attempting to evade sanctions, having previously sailed under the Guyanese flag, rendering it stateless.

During the seizure, the White House maintained that the ship was a member of a Venezuelan shadow fleet and was operating under a false flag and judicial orders.

In contrast, Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that Venezuela's government has shown willingness to cooperate with the US to stabilize its oil revenues.

Amid these developments, China's foreign ministry condemned the US actions, arguing they endanger global energy security.

As tensions grow, the US military has committed to continuing its efforts to regulate Venezuelan oil exports and stabilize the region's economic climate.