U. S. Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker in Last-Minute Move

First Seizure Under U.S. Sanctions

A Venezuelan oil tanker, the M/T Skipper, was seized by the U.S. government just as a court warrant was about to expire. The warrant, signed by a U.S. judge on November 26, gave the Trump administration until December 10, 2025, to seize the vessel. This marks the first time a Venezuelan oil cargo has been seized under U.S. sanctions, which have been in place since 2019.

Details of the Seizure

• Departure: The Skipper left Venezuela's main oil port, Jose, between December 4 and 5.
• Cargo: The vessel was carrying around 1.8 million barrels of Merey heavy crude.
• U.S. Claims: The U.S. alleges the vessel was used to transport oil from Venezuela and Iran, both of which are under U.S. sanctions.

Escalating Tensions

The seizure has escalated tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela:

• The Venezuelan government has condemned the move.
• U.S. lawmakers and legal experts have criticized recent U.S. strikes against suspected drug vessels in the region.
• President Trump has hinted at possible U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, as the U.S. continues to build up its military presence in the Southern Caribbean.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

• The warrant's affidavit remains redacted.
• Other documents in the case are temporarily sealed.
• Despite this, sources say the U.S. is preparing to intercept more ships transporting Venezuelan oil.