The first tanker, the Russian-flagged Marinera, was pursued for nearly two weeks before US forces boarded it with help from the UK Royal Navy. The second tanker, the M/T Sophia, was flagged for “illicit activities” and intercepted in the Caribbean, BBC reported.
These actions are part of a broader US strategy to cut off Venezuelan crude exports, coinciding with recent military actions against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the ongoing blockade of Venezuelan oil, reiterating that the US would maintain control over oil sales from Venezuela.
In response to the seizures, Russia condemned the US actions and insisted that proper treatment be afforded to its citizens on board. The Russian transport ministry asserted that no nation has the right to use force against vessels registered under other jurisdictions.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Venezuela’s leadership is cooperating with the US to facilitate oil movement while avoiding economic collapse. He mentioned that the US plans to sell Venezuelan oil at market rates, ensuring that the revenues benefit the Venezuelan people.
There are ongoing concerns in the US Congress regarding military involvement in Venezuela, with discussions on a bipartisan war powers resolution to restrict continued military operations. China condemned these US actions, expressing concerns over global energy security.
