The United States has dramatically escalated its maritime enforcement operations against a so-called 'shadow fleet' of oil tankers, with the US Coast Guard now pursuing a third vessel in international waters near Venezuela in less than a week.
Third Interception in a Week
This latest action, reported on Sunday 21 December 2025, follows the seizure of two other tankers earlier in the week. Officials confirmed the targeted vessel was last docked in Venezuela and is subject to international sanctions. The move comes directly after President Trump's announcement of a formal "blockade" aimed at preventing sanctioned oil tankers from entering or leaving Venezuelan ports.
Kevin Hassett, the Director of the National Economic Council, sought to downplay any domestic economic fallout from the seizures. He stated on Sunday that the two tankers captured previously were operating on the black market and supplying other sanctioned nations, implying the actions should not affect U.S. oil prices.
Part of a Broader Pressure Campaign
These interceptions are not isolated incidents but a key component of a widening U.S. pressure campaign against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The strategy has included an increased military presence in the region and direct strikes on vessels.
In a stark demonstration of this hardened approach, the U.S. has conducted more than two dozen military strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near Venezuela. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 100 people.
Implications and Escalation
The rapid succession of interdictions signals a significant ramp-up in Washington's efforts to cripple the maritime networks that support Caracas. By targeting the 'shadow fleet'—tankers that obscure their ownership and operations to evade sanctions—the U.S. aims to cut off a vital financial lifeline for the Maduro regime.
This persistent military and law enforcement activity in the waters off South America marks one of the most direct and aggressive phases of the long-standing U.S. policy to isolate Venezuela economically and politically. The situation continues to develop, with further actions likely as the enforcement of the declared blockade intensifies.
