US vs Maduro: Oil tankers avoid Venezuela due to the threat of seizure
The administration of Donald Trump has taken measures against the regime of Nicolás Maduro, leading to oil tankers refusing to enter Venezuelan ports due to the threat of vessel seizures. As of January 2026, at least seven large tankers have changed course or stopped in open seas, avoiding potential risks.
In December 2025, US forces conducted operations in international waters, highlighting the American administration's activity in combating the Maduro regime. Mid-December 2025 was marked by the seizure of the vessel Skipper on charges of transporting sanctioned oil. On December 19 of that same year, the tanker Centuries, flying under the flag of Panama, was seized, further escalating tensions around Venezuelan waters. It is noted that tankers with a total capacity of over 12 million barrels prefer to take no risks and avoid entering Venezuelan ports.
Sanctions and International Response
At the beginning of 2026, on January 1, the US imposed sanctions against four Chinese companies, including Corniola Ltd and Aries Global Investment Ltd, indicating an expansion of pressure on countries cooperating with Maduro. During the same period, the oil tanker Bella 1 was officially registered in the Russian Federation's state ship registry, after which it received a new name, Marinera, and now sails under the state flag of Russia.
Additionally, on December 20, 2025, the US Coast Guard intercepted an oil tanker in international waters, further emphasizing the activity of American forces in this regional crisis. Thus, the situation surrounding Venezuelan oil tankers remains complicated, and the threat of vessel seizures continues to deter international suppliers from cooperating with Venezuela.
The recent events surrounding Venezuelan oil tankers and US actions indicate serious tensions in the region triggered by political and economic sanctions.
The increase in the activity of American forces in international waters underscores the importance of controlling Venezuela's oil resources, which in turn affects global energy markets. In light of new sanctions against Chinese companies, there is a tendency towards the expansion of an international coalition against the Maduro regime, which could have far-reaching consequences for the Venezuelan economy and its foreign partners.