The United States seized another oil tanker off Venezuela's coast on Saturday, January 3, 2026, according to U.S. media reports. This marks at least the third such interception since December 2025, amid Washington's ongoing blockade of ships carrying oil linked to Nicolás Maduro's regime. Venezuelan authorities denounced the action as 'theft' and piracy.
U.S. media outlets reported on January 3, 2026, that American forces intercepted and seized an oil tanker in international waters off Venezuela's coast. The operation continues a campaign of enforcement actions, including seizures on December 10 and 20, 2025, following President Trump's announcement of a total blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil shipments.
Caracas immediately condemned the move, accusing the U.S. of piracy and theft. The incident heightens long-standing tensions between Washington and the Maduro government, which the U.S. deems illegitimate. U.S. sanctions have targeted Venezuela's oil exports for years to economically pressure the regime, which relies heavily on petroleum revenue.
Initial reports provided no details on the tanker's name, flag, cargo, or destination, unlike prior incidents.
