CARACAS – U.S. authorities have seized a massive oil tanker carrying an estimated two million barrels of Venezuelan crude off the coast of Venezuela, marking a significant escalation in pressure on the government of President Nicolás Maduro.
The vessel, identified as the Skipper, was intercepted by U.S. forces after recently loading its cargo at Venezuela’s José oil terminal. Satellite imagery dated November 27 shows the tanker positioned off the Venezuelan coast. The ship measures approximately 333 meters (1,093 feet) in length, placing it among the world’s largest crude carriers.
According to available information, the Skipper had previously been sanctioned by the United States for its alleged involvement in the transport of Iranian oil in violation of international sanctions. Its interception and seizure now signal a tougher enforcement approach by Washington.
The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Caribbean region, where the United States has intensified operations against what it describes as illicit Venezuelan-linked activities, including recent actions against alleged drug-smuggling vessels. The seizure of a fully loaded oil tanker represents a sharp shift from maritime interdictions focused on narcotics to direct action targeting Venezuela’s oil exports.
U.S. officials have not yet released full details on the legal grounds for the seizure or the ship’s intended destination. Venezuelan authorities have also not formally responded, though the incident is likely to further strain already fragile relations between Caracas and Washington.
The seizure underscores the growing geopolitical pressure on Venezuela at a time when its economy remains heavily dependent on crude oil exports and when regional security tensions are already elevated.