The United States attempted to seize a Russian-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela on Wednesday, escalating tensions in Latin America and straining relations with Moscow.
The move is part of President Donald Trump’s push to control oil flows in the region and pressure Venezuela’s government to cooperate with U.S. interests.
The U.S. Coast Guard and military targeted a tanker that had refused boarding last month. Russian vessels and a submarine were reportedly nearby after a two-week pursuit in the Atlantic, heightening the risk of confrontation with Russia.
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A Russian state media outlet showed a helicopter hovering near the vessel, Marinera, which is reportedly empty.
In addition, U.S. forces intercepted another fully-loaded Venezuela-linked tanker near the northeast coast of South America, marking the fourth such interception in recent weeks.
The Trump administration is simultaneously pursuing a deal to import up to $2 billion worth of Venezuelan crude to the U.S., diverting supplies from China. Trump has emphasized controlling Venezuela’s oil reserves in coordination with U.S. companies.
China condemned the U.S. actions as “typical acts of bullying,” while Russia and Venezuela’s leftist allies also criticised Washington’s recent seizure of Maduro and other aggressive measures.
Details of the U.S. Special Forces’ operation to capture Maduro last weekend are still emerging. The raid reportedly involved a helicopter assault in Caracas, resulting in dozens of Venezuelan military and security personnel casualties. Maduro, 63, has pleaded not guilty to narcotics charges in a Manhattan court.
While Trump seeks to revive Venezuela’s oil sector with U.S. firms, interim President Delcy Rodriguez and Maduro’s allies face intense U.S. scrutiny to cooperate or risk consequences.
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Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado remains cautious, seeking a peaceful return and backing U.S. energy objectives.
The U.S. strategy highlights Washington’s efforts to control energy flows in the Americas while leveraging sanctions and military pressure to influence Venezuelan leadership and policy.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
