US forces are stopping more oil going to Venezuela. They caught a second ship with oil near Venezuela. US officials say this money helps criminals. It also helps President Maduro's government. The US Department of Defense says a third ship is being chased. This shows the US is serious about stopping Venezuela's oil trade.
These actions show a new US plan for Venezuela's oil. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said, "The US will stop oil that funds crime." She also said, "We will find you and stop you." Senator Marco Rubio said the US will protect its interests. This suggests the US will use many ways to affect Venezuela.
The ships caught include the "Centuries" and the "Bella 1." The "Bella 1" sent oil to China. These seizures aim to stop money for Venezuela. The US put the "Bella 1" on a list last year. This shows they are focused on ships with illegal oil. The US has sent its biggest fleet to the area. Many ships are now going to the Indian Ocean to hide.
President Maduro has told his navy to guard oil ships. This might make things more tense. The US might stop any ship with Venezuelan oil. This strategy has trapped many ships. Some ships are also hiding their location.
Stopping these ships will hurt Venezuela's money. This could cause more economic problems. The US has also hinted it might fight if needed. These actions show the US wants to change things with Venezuela. They are using economic and sea pressure.