The **US Seizes Tanker** – its second in two weeks – near Venezuela’s coast, intensifying its pressure campaign. US forces apprehended the Panama-flagged tanker “Centuries” on Saturday, December 21, 2025, a move that has drawn sharp condemnation from Caracas, which labeled the action “theft and kidnapping.” The US asserted that the tanker was carrying oil subject to sanctions, a key part of **US Venezuela sanctions** enforcement.
The Latest US Seizes Tanker Operation
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the operation, executed by the US Coast Guard with support from the Department of War in the pre-dawn hours of December 20. Footage captured a US helicopter deploying personnel onto the vessel. Secretary Noem emphasized the US pursuit of the “illicit movement of sanctioned oil,” stating it funds narco-terrorism. The White House confirmed the tanker was laden with sanctioned **PDVSA oil cargo**, amounting to approximately 1.8 million barrels of crude. This significant **oil tanker seizure** occurred after the vessel loaded at a Venezuelan port earlier in December, with its intended destination being China.
Venezuela’s Outcry Against US Seizes Tanker
Venezuela reacted with outrage to the **US Seizes Tanker** incident. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez vehemently declared that these acts “will not go unpunished” and vowed justice for those responsible. Caracas views this latest **oil tanker seizure** as “international piracy,” alleging violations of international law and the freedom of navigation. Venezuela intends to file formal complaints with the UN Security Council and other multilateral bodies.
Escalating US Pressure and Tanker Seizures
The seizure of the “Centuries” follows the detention of another oil tanker on December 10, marking a significant escalation in **sanctions enforcement**. President Donald Trump announced a “blockade” targeting all sanctioned oil tankers attempting to enter or leave Venezuela. The US has deployed a substantial naval fleet to the region, its largest in decades, aiming to choke off oil revenues that sustain the Maduro government. This aggressive stance underscores the seriousness of the **US Seizes Tanker** policy.
Background and Context of the US Seizes Tanker Actions
The US has maintained sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector for years, with a particular focus on the **shadow fleet oil** operations. These clandestine shipments, often using vessels that operate outside standard legal channels, have become a prime target. The first seized tanker, the “Skipper,” was identified as part of this fleet. While the “Centuries” is Chinese-owned and Panama-flagged, and some reports suggest it may have initially evaded detection, the White House maintains its cargo was sanctioned **PDVSA oil cargo**. This ongoing **US Seizes Tanker** strategy signifies an expansion of enforcement efforts.
Implications and Reactions to the US Seizes Tanker
These seizures represent a new and more aggressive tactic by the US, signaling a tougher stance that heightens geopolitical risks. While the move is expected to further diminish Venezuela’s oil revenue, some officials suggest it may not significantly impact global oil prices due to Venezuela’s relatively small share of the market, especially since the seized tankers were part of the illicit trade rather than legitimate **Venezuelan oil exports**. The persistent nature of the **US Seizes Tanker** campaign is a critical factor.
Despite the implied **Naval blockade Venezuela** scenario, the US continues to import Venezuelan oil under specific exceptions for domestic refineries, a dual policy that has drawn criticism. Publicly available evidence directly linking these **oil tanker seizure** events to drug trafficking or terror financing remains limited.
Future Outlook of US Seizes Tanker Policy
The US appears resolute in continuing its pressure campaign, while Venezuela remains defiant and vows legal recourse. This developing situation highlights persistent international tensions and the uncertain future of **Venezuelan oil exports**. The ongoing **US Seizes Tanker** saga is being closely monitored globally, with complex international relations and regional stability hanging in the balance.
