The United States has imposed sanctions on an additional six ships identified as transporting Venezuelan oil. This action occurred one day after a tanker was seized off the Venezuelan coast. Sanctions have also been applied to relatives of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and businesses that Washington states are associated with his administration.
Details of Actions
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the seized vessel, named the Skipper, was involved in "illicit oil shipping" and would be transported to an American port. The Venezuelan government characterized the seizure as an "act of international piracy."
This development signifies a continuation of the US pressure campaign against the Maduro administration. American warships have increased their presence in the region in recent months. The US administration has accused Venezuela of facilitating narcotics trafficking into the United States. Venezuela, which possesses large proven oil reserves, has, in turn, accused Washington of attempting to exploit its resources.
Statements from Officials
President Maduro stated on Wednesday that Venezuela would not become an "oil colony." Conversely, Leavitt stated on Thursday that the US is committed to both "stopping the flow of illegal drugs" into the country and enforcing sanctions. She did not comment on whether the US planned to seize more ships transporting Venezuelan oil, but stated, "We're not going to stand by and watch sanctioned vessels sail the seas with black market oil, the proceeds of which will fuel narco-terrorism of rogue and illegitimate regimes around the world." Leavitt also indicated that the US plans to seize the oil cargo aboard the Skipper after legal processes are completed.
Regarding a call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Maduro, during which Putin reportedly offered Russia's support "in the face of growing external pressure," Leavitt stated that the US administration would not be concerned.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated via social media platform X that imposing sanctions on three nephews of Maduro's wife, alongside several businesses and ships, would address the leader's "dictatorial and brutal control." He added that the US administration is "holding the regime and its circle of cronies and companies accountable for its continued crimes."