United States military and police have taken control of a large oil tanker. This happened in the sea near Venezuela. President Donald Trump announced the action. It is part of America's plan to pressure Venezuela's government. US officials said the ship was part of a secret oil transport group.
The operation involved many US agencies. Venezuela called it "international piracy." Video showed soldiers landing on the ship from a helicopter. The footage showed the operation was difficult and needed many resources.
The US Attorney General explained why they took the ship. She said the tanker was under US sanctions for years. It was used to secretly move oil from Venezuela and Iran. The ship helped groups that support terrorism. This action is about US security, not just money.
The US government believes Venezuela's leader is corrupt. Many experts think this seizure is a direct way to stop Venezuela's oil money. President Trump said it was the biggest tanker the US has ever seized.
Venezuela strongly criticized the action. They called it "theft" and said the US wants their resources. This will likely increase problems between the two countries. Oil prices went up a little because of this.
Experts worry about ships in the Caribbean. Insurance costs may rise. This shows the US will use force to enforce its rules. It could affect other countries. What happens next to Venezuela's oil and its government is being watched closely.