In a significant escalation of its economic sanctions strategy, the United States has intercepted a second oil tanker suspected of transporting sanctioned Venezuelan crude. The operation, which took place in international waters off the coast of Barbados, involved a specialized US Coast Guard tactical team. This pre-dawn seizure on Saturday morning highlights Washington's unwavering commitment to disrupting the flow of Venezuelan oil. It follows a similar incident earlier in December, signaling a more assertive application of sanctions by the current administration.
The vessel, identified as the Panama-flagged tanker "Centuries," was reportedly intercepted in the Caribbean Sea after its recent departure from Venezuela. Officials from the US Department of Homeland Security explained that the operation aimed to intercept the illicit movement of sanctioned oil. They allege this oil is being used to finance narcotics trafficking and terrorism throughout the region. Secretary Kristi Noem issued a strong warning, stating, "The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. We will find you, and we will stop you."
This latest seizure is being framed by the US as a direct enforcement of a "blockade" order previously issued by President Donald Trump. The administration has indicated that any vessel transporting Venezuelan oil could be subject to interdiction, suggesting an expanding scope for sanctions enforcement. This development occurs amidst already heightened geopolitical tensions between the US and Venezuela. Washington is actively seeking to isolate President Nicolás Maduro's government through various economic measures.
Venezuela has vehemently condemned the US action, denouncing it as an act of "theft and hijacking." The Venezuelan government has also labelled it a "serious act of international piracy." Vice President Delcy Rodriguez expressed concerns regarding the welfare of the tanker's crew, suggesting they may have been subjected to "forced disappearance." Caracas has vowed repercussions and announced its intention to lodge formal complaints with the United Nations Security Council and other international bodies.
The interception of the "Centuries," a vessel not previously listed on US sanctions lists, could represent an escalation in the enforcement strategy. Observers note that the US has also reportedly deployed a substantial naval presence to the region, further amplifying pressure on Venezuela's vital oil exports. The administration's sustained efforts to cripple Venezuela's economy through oil sanctions are a cornerstone of its policy towards the South American nation. However, these measures have been met with strong resistance from Caracas, which views them as an attempt to plunder its natural resources. The ongoing maritime interdictions and Venezuela's defiant response indicate a potentially volatile period ahead, with the risk of further confrontation between the two nations.