Trump Declines to Rule Out Seizing Another Venezuelan Oil Tanker
President Donald Trump has refused to rule out the possibility of another U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas and signaling a continued hardline stance on Venezuela’s oil trade and sanctions enforcement.
Speaking to reporters, Trump was asked directly whether the United States might carry out another tanker seizure similar to previous actions targeting vessels linked to the Venezuelan government. The president did not provide a definitive answer, instead suggesting that “all options remain on the table” as the U.S. continues to pressure President Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
The comments come amid heightened scrutiny of Venezuela’s oil exports, which remain a critical source of revenue for the Maduro government despite extensive U.S. sanctions. American officials have accused Venezuela of using illicit oil shipments to evade sanctions, fund government operations, and maintain political control.
Past tanker seizures carried out by the U.S. were justified on grounds of sanctions violations and alleged ties to criminal or terrorist financing networks. Those actions drew sharp condemnation from Venezuela, which accused Washington of piracy and economic warfare. International reactions were mixed, with some U.S. allies expressing concern over escalating maritime tensions.
Trump’s refusal to rule out further seizures reinforces his administration’s broader strategy of applying maximum pressure on Venezuela. The approach has included economic sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and support for opposition figures, all aimed at forcing political change in Caracas.
Critics argue that tanker seizures risk destabilizing global energy markets and increasing the likelihood of confrontation at sea. They also warn that aggressive enforcement actions could further strain relations with countries that continue to purchase Venezuelan oil, either openly or through indirect channels.
Supporters of Trump’s stance, however, say firm action is necessary to prevent sanctioned oil from reaching international markets. They argue that strong enforcement protects U.S. interests and sends a clear message that sanctions will be upheld.
Energy analysts note that even the suggestion of additional tanker seizures can have an impact, raising concerns among shipping companies, insurers, and buyers involved in Venezuelan crude transactions. This uncertainty could further restrict Venezuela’s already limited ability to export oil.
While Trump stopped short of announcing any immediate action, his remarks underscore ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela and suggest that maritime enforcement could remain a key tool in U.S. foreign policy.
As global attention remains focused on energy security and geopolitical risks, any move involving the seizure of oil tankers would likely have far-reaching diplomatic and economic consequences.
Watch video below :
