In a dramatic escalation of geopolitical tensions, United States military forces have intercepted and seized a massive oil tanker off the Venezuelan coastline. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation during a White House briefing, characterizing the vessel as “very large, the largest one ever seized actually.”
The seized tanker, identified by maritime risk firm Vanguard Tech as the ‘Skipper,’ was allegedly transporting sanctioned petroleum from Venezuela and Iran. US Attorney General Pam Bondi released operational footage showing military helicopters hovering above the vessel while armed troops descended onto the deck via ropes. According to official statements, the interception involved coordinated efforts between the FBI, Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and Coast Guard, utilizing two helicopters, ten Coast Guard members, ten Marines, and special forces personnel.
Venezuela’s government immediately condemned the action as “international piracy” and a “grave international crime” in an official statement. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello drew comparisons to pirate films, asserting that while fictional pirates might be heroes, “these guys are high seas criminals, buccaneers.” President Nicolás Maduro, speaking at a rally before the seizure was publicly announced, performed an adapted version of ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’ with modified lyrics advocating peace: “Not war, be happy. Not, not crazy war, not, be happy.”
The operation occurs amid significant US military buildup in the Caribbean region, including the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford and thousands of troops within striking distance of Venezuela. The Trump administration maintains that such actions target narcotics smuggling networks, having conducted at least 22 strikes on boats in the region since September resulting in approximately 80 fatalities.
Financial markets responded to the seizure with increased oil prices due to short-term supply concerns. Analysts warn that the escalation could further disrupt Venezuela’s oil exports and create risks for international shippers. When questioned about the disposition of the confiscated oil, President Trump indicated “We keep it, I guess… I assume we’re going to keep the oil.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was aware of the operation, and administration sources suggest similar actions may be considered in the future.