US seizes two Venezuela-linked tankers as Trump expands oil push

The United States on Wednesday seized two oil tankers tied to Venezuela in the Atlantic Ocean, including one flying under Russia’s flag, as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified efforts to control oil flows in the Americas and pressure Venezuela’s socialist government.

The actions come after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a military raid and are aimed at enforcing sanctions and blocking vessels heading to and from the South American nation.

U.S. authorities, supported by a judicial seizure warrant, took control of the Marinera crude oil tanker after a weeks-long pursuit; the ship had earlier resisted boarding and reflagged itself under Russia. With Russian naval assets nearby, the operation raised the risk of heightened tensions, though the Kremlin did not immediately comment. U.S. officials allege the vessel was falsely flying the Russian flag to evade sanctions. Earlier the same day, the U.S. Coast Guard intercepted the Panama-flagged M Sophia, fully loaded with Venezuelan oil, marking the fourth tanker seizure in recent weeks.

U.S. officials described both vessels as part of a “shadow fleet” used to move sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. White House representatives stated that only energy shipments complying with U.S. law will be permitted and emphasized potential legitimate commercial opportunities for Venezuela’s energy sector. The crew of the Marinera now faces criminal charges for failing to comply with Coast Guard orders.

China condemned the U.S. actions as bullying, accusing Washington of overreaching by trying to control how Venezuela disposes of its own oil. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pursuing a deal to redirect Venezuelan oil supplies, including up to $2 billion in crude, toward U.S. interests. Trump said proceeds from such deals could be used by Venezuela to purchase American goods.

Maduro, who recently pleaded not guilty to drug charges in a U.S. court, continues to be supported by his Socialist Party even as Acting President Delcy Rodriguez balances denouncing his capture with engaging in talks with the United States. PDVSA confirmed ongoing negotiations with Washington, stressing that any agreement must be commercially viable and transparent. However, U.S. oil companies remain cautious about investing in Venezuela due to foreign policy uncertainties.

The U.S. also announced plans to refine and sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude held under sanctions as part of Trump’s broader strategy to revitalize the energy sector. The news contributed to a drop in global crude prices amid expectations of increased supply. International reaction to the Maduro operation has been sharply critical, with China, Russia and Venezuelan allies denouncing the U.S. move and reports emerging of dozens of Venezuelan casualties linked to the military action.