What do we know about the oil tanker seized by the US off the Venezuela coast?

The GuardianThursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:54:25 PM
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What do we know about the oil tanker seized by the US off the Venezuela coast?
  • The U.S. military has seized the Skipper, an oil tanker previously sanctioned in 2022, off the coast of Venezuela, reportedly carrying 1.1 million barrels of oil. This operation, confirmed by President Donald Trump, marks a significant escalation in U.S. military presence and actions in the region, which has seen increased tensions between the U.S. and the Venezuelan government led by Nicolás Maduro.
  • This seizure is part of the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign against Maduro's regime, which has been characterized by heightened military operations and sanctions aimed at curbing Venezuela's oil exports. The operation underscores the U.S. commitment to exerting influence in the region amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
  • The incident has drawn sharp criticism from Venezuelan officials, who have labeled the action as 'piracy' and 'theft,' reflecting the broader narrative of U.S.-Venezuela relations marked by hostility and accusations. This development highlights the complexities of international oil politics and the strategic maneuvers by the U.S. to counteract what it perceives as threats from Maduro's government, amidst a backdrop of economic instability in Venezuela.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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