United States military forces have intercepted and seized another oil tanker under sanctions in the Caribbean Sea, marking a significant escalation in Washington's campaign to exert control over Venezuela's vital petroleum industry.
Latest Seizure in Strategic Waters
The vessel, identified as the Motor Tanker Veronica, was taken by US forces on Thursday 15 January 2026. Officials from the Trump administration stated the tanker had connections to Venezuela and was operating in defiance of established sanctions.
In a statement posted on social media, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the action. She wrote that the Veronica had "previously passed through Venezuelan waters" and was flouting "President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean."
Broad Campaign to Control Venezuelan Oil
This seizure represents the sixth tanker captured by American forces as part of a concerted strategy by President Donald Trump's administration. The stated goal is to command the production, refining, and global distribution of Venezuela's oil products.
The operation gains critical context from recent dramatic political events in Venezuela. It is the third such seizure since the US-supported ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a surprise nighttime raid almost two weeks ago.
Implications for Regional Stability and Energy Markets
This latest move underscores the intensity of Washington's efforts to dismantle the economic foundations of the former Maduro government. By targeting the oil sector—the lifeblood of Venezuela's economy—the US aims to solidify the political transition and prevent revenue from flowing to Maduro loyalists.
The persistent seizures in key Caribbean shipping lanes signal a prolonged maritime enforcement strategy. Analysts suggest these actions could lead to increased tensions in the region and potentially disrupt global oil shipping routes, affecting energy markets and international relations.
