The United States seized its sixth Venezuelan oil tanker despite marked improvements in Washington’s relationship with acting President Delcy Rodriguez.
U.S. Marines and sailors seized the oil tanker Veronica in the early hours of Thursday, U.S. Southern Command confirmed. The seizure was part of Operation Southern Spear, and occurred “without incident.”
“The Veronica is the latest tanker operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean, proving the effectiveness of Operation Southern Spear yet again,” SOUTHCOM’s X account said in a statement.
“The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully. The @DeptofWar, in coordination with interagency partners, will defend our homeland by ending illicit activity and restoring security in the Western Hemisphere,” it concluded.
A video of the operation was attached to the post, showing thermal footage of U.S. Marines fast-roping from helicopters onto the ship.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem provided further details in a post on X, saying the Veronica had traveled through Venezuelan waters and was operating in “defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.” She praised the “heroic” personnel who “ensured a flawlessly executed operation” in line with international law.
“As we’ve now demonstrated through multiple boardings, there is no outrunning or escaping American justice — period. Our resolve is unshakeable and our mission coordination has never been better. America’s Coast Guard remains Always Ready to apply the full force of its unique authorities and specialized capabilities against this threat anywhere, anytime,” Noem said.
The seizure is notable for coming after an oil deal was struck with Caracas, and after President Donald Trump’s relationship with Rodriguez improved markedly.
The two spoke by phone on Wednesday, a call the U.S. president relayed in gushing terms on Truth Social.
He described the call as “very good,” saying, “We are making tremendous progress, as we help Venezuela stabilize and recover. Many topics were discussed, including Oil, Minerals, Trade and, of course, National Security.”
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“This partnership between the United States of America and Venezuela will be a spectacular one FOR ALL. Venezuela will soon be great and prosperous again, perhaps more so than ever before!” Trump said.
As part of the oil deal, all Venezuelan oil will be sold through the U.S., but all revenue will go back to Caracas. This ensures that the U.S. decides to whom the oil will be sold.
