The U.S. military recently seized another oil tanker, stepping up measures against Venezuela as part of ongoing sanctions. This tanker, named Veronica, is said to be sailing under a Guyanese flag. U.S. marines and sailors boarded the vessel in a pre-dawn operation, which was confirmed by the U.S. Southern Command on social media.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised the Coast Guard for their efficient execution of the operation, stating it was conducted according to international law. She noted that the Veronica was part of a “ghost fleet”—foreign-flagged tankers defying U.S. sanctions in the Caribbean.
This announcement came just before a scheduled meeting between former President Donald Trump and María Corina Machado, a leading figure in the Venezuelan opposition. They were set to discuss the aftermath of President Nicolás Maduro’s recent capture in Caracas and Venezuela’s path forward.
The operation involved collaboration among various U.S. agencies and was launched from the USS Gerald R. Ford. Footage released shows service members descending onto the tanker’s deck from a helicopter. According to reports, this marks the sixth seizure of a foreign-flagged oil tanker by the U.S. military in its efforts to curb Venezuela’s oil exports following Maduro’s removal.
In the week leading up to the Veronica operation, the U.S. military also intercepted another vessel named Olina in the Caribbean, further showcasing their commitment to enforcing sanctions. This extended action comes amidst a broader strategy to control the distribution of Venezuelan oil globally.
The U.S. has accused Venezuela of using deceptive tactics, like false-flag operations, to mask its oil shipments. A prominent incident involved the boarding of the Russian-flagged tanker Marinera in January, closely monitored by a Russian submarine. This incident emphasized the complexities of international maritime law and geopolitical tensions.
Experts in international relations advise cautious evaluation of these military actions. “While sanctions might curb immediate revenues,” said Dr. Maria Gonzalez, a political analyst, “the long-term impacts could push countries toward alternative markets or partnerships.” This sentiment is echoed by recent studies indicating that heavy sanctions can lead to unforeseen economic alliances.
Public reaction on social media has been divided. Supporters of the actions praise the U.S. for taking a tough stance against Maduro, while critics express concern about the implications for international maritime law and sovereignty.
As these events unfold, the geopolitical landscape around Venezuela continues to shift. The situation serves as a reminder of the power struggle that influences not just national policies but international relations at large.
For further reading on the implications of U.S. sanctions and military interventions, you can explore the Council on Foreign Relations for comprehensive insights.
