US Venezuela oil tanker seizure 2026: The global energy blockade escalates

The blockade isn't just a threat—it's in full effect. The United States has seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela in back-to-back operations across the North Atlantic and the Caribbean. This aggressive maritime move comes only days after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, signaling a new era of direct intervention in global energy flows.

US Venezuela oil tanker seizure 2026: North Atlantic and Caribbean raids

In a coordinated effort on January 7, 2026, U.S. forces boarded the Russian-flagged Marinera (formerly Bella 1) near the waters of Iceland and Scotland. The United Kingdom provided critical logistical support via the RAF and RFA Tideforce. Simultaneously, the M/T Sophia was intercepted in the Caribbean. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on X that the blockade against sanctioned Venezuelan oil is being enforced globally.

Moscow and Beijing condemn maritime 'force'

The seizures haven't gone unchallenged. Russia denounced the boarding of its flagged vessel at 15:00 Moscow time, demanding the safe return of its citizens. Meanwhile, China, the primary buyer of Venezuelan crude, accused the U.S. of threatening international energy security. Despite reports of a Russian submarine dispatched to protect the Marinera, the boarding occurred without physical resistance.

President Donald Trump noted that Venezuela is expected to turn over up to 50 million barrels of oil, valued at roughly $2.8 billion. The U.S. plans to sell this oil at market rates, controlling the proceeds to ensure they benefit the Venezuelan people rather than the previous administration's coffers.