President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that U.S. forces have seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a move that significantly escalates the already volatile standoff between Washington and the South American nation.
“We’ve just seized a tanker on the coast of Venezuela,” Trump told reporters. “Largest one ever seized actually. And other things are happening.”
While the President declined to provide specific details regarding the ship’s name or the exact location of the intercept, he noted the vessel was targeted for “a very good reason.”
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According to three officials speaking on condition of anonymity, the operation was executed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the tanker had been sanctioned by the U.S. government. The seizure is expected to further complicate trade for the oil-rich country, signaling to global shippers that handling Venezuelan cargo—most of which is currently bound for China—carries severe risks.
Energy markets reacted almost immediately to the news. Brent crude futures ticked up 27 cents, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 21 cents.
“Start Doing It On Land”
The maritime seizure takes place against the backdrop of the largest U.S. naval buildup in the Caribbean in decades. The Trump administration has steadily ramped up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, accusing his regime of facilitating illegal narcotics trafficking.
The Pentagon has adopted an aggressive posture in the region since September, launching approximately two dozen strikes on alleged drug boats that have resulted in at least 87 deaths. Additionally, the President authorized the CIA in October to undertake covert actions inside Venezuela.
The President’s recent rhetoric suggests the campaign may soon expand beyond naval interdictions.
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“I think you’re going to find that this is war,” Trump remarked last week regarding the recent strikes. “And very soon we’re going to start doing it on land too.”
Maduro Mobilizes Defenses
From Caracas, President Maduro has fiercely denied allegations of involvement in the drug trade. He claims the administration is “fabricating a new eternal war” to force him from power and seize control of Venezuela’s massive oil reserves.
In response to what he terms American aggression, Maduro has urged citizens to unite and has deployed troops, aircraft, and warships to the Venezuelan coast, heightening fears of a direct military confrontation.
Neither the White House nor the Pentagon immediately responded to requests for further comment on the operation.
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