The Venezuelan government denounced on Saturday, December 20, 2025, the U.S. seizure of a private oil tanker in international waters, calling it an act of "theft and kidnapping" that violates international law. Authorities accused U.S. military forces of commandeering the vessel near Venezuela’s coast and detaining its crew, escalating tensions over energy trade sanctions.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the seizure, stating it aligned with sanctions targeting Venezuela’s oil sector. This marks the second such incident in recent weeks amid a U.S. military buildup in the region. Venezuelan officials argue the action breaches UN Charter principles and maritime safety conventions, warning of destabilizing effects on global trade.
The move follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent order to block all sanctioned oil tankers from entering or leaving Venezuelan waters. Analysts suggest the confrontations reflect deepening geopolitical friction over energy resources and maritime sovereignty.
