U.S. intercepts second oil tanker near Venezuela (Video)

The United States has seized another oil tanker near Venezuela, stepping up pressure on Caracas just days after President Donald Trump announced a sweeping blockade of oil shipments deemed to violate US sanctions.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the operation on Saturday, saying the US Coast Guard, supported by the Department of Defense, intercepted a tanker that had recently docked in Venezuelan ports. Noem shared video of the pre-dawn raid online, claiming the action was aimed at stopping what Washington describes as the illicit movement of sanctioned oil allegedly used to fund criminal and narco-terrorist activity.

The interception took place in international waters and marks the second such seizure in recent weeks. Unlike a tanker detained earlier this month, the vessel involved was not itself under US sanctions and was reportedly carrying Venezuelan crude bound for Asian markets. Following the first interdiction, several ships have reportedly remained in Venezuelan waters rather than risk seizure, contributing to a sharp decline in the country’s oil exports.

The latest move comes amid a broader US military buildup in the region and follows Trump’s renewed claims that Venezuela has stolen American oil assets and investments. He has warned that Washington intends to reclaim those interests and has threatened overwhelming force if Caracas does not comply.

Since September, the US pressure campaign has included naval deployments, vessel seizures and repeated strikes on boats Washington links to drug trafficking operations. US officials say these actions have resulted in the deaths of more than 100 suspected cartel members.

Venezuela has rejected the accusations, condemning the seizures and blockade as illegal acts of piracy. President Nicolas Maduro has accused Washington of pursuing regime change in order to gain control of the country’s vast oil reserves.

In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela.

The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund… pic.twitter.com/nSZ4mi6axc

— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) December 20, 2025