A Gambia-flagged oil and chemical tanker under US sanctions successfully navigated into Venezuelan territorial waters this Friday, directly challenging the Trump administration’s declared ‘total and complete blockade’ against such vessels. Maritime tracking data confirmed the vessel Hyperion’s presence near the Amuay Bay refinery complex following its transit through Caribbean sea routes.
The Hyperion was originally sanctioned last January as a component of broader US efforts to restrict Russian energy revenue streams. This latest development occurs alongside intensified US economic pressure targeting Caracas. On the same day, Washington imposed fresh sanctions against additional family members of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, including his sister-in-law.
Venezuela’s government has vehemently denounced the US maritime blockade, characterizing it as a ‘reckless and serious threat’ to international norms. The Maduro administration maintains that Washington’s ultimate objectives include regime change and appropriation of Venezuela’s substantial natural resources.
The United States has consistently rejected these assertions, instead justifying its months-long pressure campaign—which has included deadly military strikes in Caribbean and Pacific regions—as necessary measures in the war against drug trafficking. US officials have repeatedly labeled Maduro’s presidency as illegitimate and have accused him of narco-trafficking activities.