WASHINGTON – The United States is closely monitoring 18 fully loaded oil tankers located in waters near Venezuela that are subject to U.S. sanctions, according to reporting by Axios. The development follows former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent order for a total blockade of sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela.
U.S. authorities are reportedly assessing the option of seizing the vessels should they move into international waters. Such a step would mark a further escalation of U.S. enforcement actions against Venezuela’s oil trade. Last week, Washington already confiscated a supertanker as part of its efforts to tighten pressure on the government of President Nicolás Maduro.
The monitoring operation is part of a broader strategy aimed at cutting off Venezuela’s primary source of revenue: oil exports. By targeting tankers that transport sanctioned crude, the United States seeks to prevent circumvention of existing sanctions and restrict the flow of funds linked to the Maduro administration.
The situation has raised concerns across the Caribbean region, particularly for countries located near major maritime routes. Increased U.S. naval activity, heightened inspections, and the potential seizure of vessels could affect shipping traffic, insurance costs, and regional energy logistics.
While no official confirmation has been given regarding imminent seizures, U.S. officials have made clear that enforcement actions will continue if sanctioned tankers attempt to operate outside Venezuelan territorial waters.
The developments add to growing geopolitical tensions in the southern Caribbean and come amid increased military and maritime activity linked to the U.S.–Venezuela standoff, a situation closely watched by governments, shipping operators, and energy markets throughout the region.