On Saturday, December 20, 2025, Venezuela's government publicly condemned what it describes as a "new theft and kidnapping" of a private vessel transporting Venezuelan oil, along with the disappearance of its crew, allegedly carried out by U.S. military forces in international waters off the Venezuelan coast.
Caracas labeled the move an act of piracy that violates international law and undermines fundamental principles of freedom of navigation and maritime trade. In its official statement, the government cited breaches of the UN Charter and multilateral conventions protecting maritime safety.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the seizure, saying U.S. forces acted "to uphold sanctions and prevent illicit oil shipments."
This marks the second similar incident in recent weeks, following an early December seizure amid a U.S. military build-up in the region. It also comes days after President Donald Trump ordered a blockade on U.S.-sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuelan ports.
Observers warn that escalating maritime tensions could ripple through global energy markets already navigating complex supply challenges. With both sides entrenching their positions, international analysts will be closely watching how this standoff unfolds.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
