In a bold move that escalates tensions in Latin America, the U.S. military intercepted and seized a stateless oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
The tanker, described as the largest ever seized by U.S. forces, was last docked in Venezuela. According to a senior U.S. official cited by Bloomberg, the operation was a “judicial enforcement action” aimed at cutting off illicit shipments in the region.
International markets reacted immediately. In London trading, Brent crude futures jumped as much as 0.8 percent, reflecting concerns over supply disruptions and growing tensions in the Caribbean Sea.
The seizure follows an escalated U.S. military footprint in the region. Since September, the Pentagon has conducted at least 22 strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in at least 87 fatalities. Navies deploying roughly a dozen warships—including the USS Gerald R. Ford—and 15,000 troops have not been seen in these waters for over 30 years.
President Trump also reiterated plans to launch land strikes targeting drug traffickers “very soon,” signaling a shift toward broader operations against criminal networks in and around the Venezuelan coast.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the move as an attempt to overthrow his government and expand U.S. influence in Latin America. The incident adds a new flashpoint to already strained U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Key takeaways:
- Largest stateless tanker ever seized, says President Trump.
- Brent crude surged up to 0.8% in London trading.
- 22 naval strikes on drug vessels, 87 lives lost since September.
- U.S. deploys 12 warships and 15,000 troops to the Caribbean.
- Venezuelan President condemns action as regime overthrow attempt.
What's next? Watch for further market volatility and diplomatic reactions as both Washington and Caracas brace for intensified confrontation.
Reference(s):
U.S. seizes oil tanker off coast of Venezuela, Trump confirms
cgtn.com
