In a significant escalation of sanctions enforcement, United States naval forces have intercepted and seized two oil tankers carrying Venezuelan crude in Caribbean waters. The operation, confirmed by the US European Command, culminated a two-week Atlantic pursuit targeting vessels allegedly violating international sanctions against Venezuela.
The seized vessels include the Russian-flagged Bella 1 and the fully-loaded Sophia tanker, collectively transporting millions of barrels of crude oil. Maritime tracking data indicates the Sophia alone carries approximately two million barrels of Merey crude loaded from Venezuela’s Jose Oil Terminal in late December.
President Donald Trump announced the unprecedented seizure, stating that between 30 million and 50 million barrels of sanctioned oil would be confiscated and sold at market value. The President issued directives demanding Venezuela exclusively collaborate with the United States on oil exports while severing energy ties with China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba.
“This Oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!” Trump declared via social media on Tuesday.
The operation received substantial international support, with United Kingdom forces providing surveillance and logistical assistance. British Defence Secretary John Healey characterized the seizure as part of “global efforts to crack down on sanctions busting.”
However, the action has provoked strong diplomatic backlash from both China and Russia. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the seizure during a Wednesday press conference, stating: “The United States’ brazen use of force against Venezuela and its demand for ‘America First’ when Venezuela disposes of its own oil resources are typical acts of bullying.” Russian officials echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the seizure as an unlawful assertion of extraterritorial jurisdiction.