CARIBBEAN WATERS — Tensions between Washington and Caracas have reached a boiling point following the second interception of a merchant vessel by U.S. naval forces in international waters. This latest maneuver is part of an intensifying maritime blockade aimed at cutting off the Venezuelan government’s primary source of revenue.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Interception: Expansion of the “Blockade”
The Panama-flagged vessel, identified as the Centuries, was intercepted while carrying an estimated 1.8 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil. This operation follows the seizure of another tanker, the Skipper, just ten days prior.
A significant point of contention has emerged regarding the legality of the move:
- Target Selection: U.S. officials admitted the vessel does not appear to be on the formal sanctions list, suggesting a shift toward a broader, “de facto” embargo.
- The Justification: The U.S. maintains the cargo was intended to fund “narco-terrorism,” justifying the boarding as a matter of regional security.
- The Operation: The tanker was intercepted in pre-dawn hours by U.S. Coast Guard and Navy personnel in what was described as a high-stakes maritime standoff.
Caracas Strikes Back: “Naval Piracy”
The Venezuelan government has reacted with immediate and sharp condemnation, characterizing the U.S. actions as “criminal conduct” and “maritime piracy.” In a televised address, the Maduro administration warned of direct retaliation:
- Escorts: Venezuela has ordered its own naval assets to begin escorting oil tankers to prevent further seizures.
- Legal Action: Caracas is petitioning the United Nations, claiming these interceptions violate international maritime law and sovereign rights.
- Economic Blowback: In a strategic move, Venezuela has already begun canceling regional energy agreements with neighbors suspected of aiding U.S. efforts.
A Region on the Edge
The standoff is part of “Operation Southern Spear,” a massive U.S. deployment featuring 11 warships. With U.S. leadership stating that “all options are on the table,” the Caribbean has become a theater of high-stakes brinkmanship. Currently, dozens of “shadow fleet” tankers are reportedly hovering in Venezuelan coastal waters, afraid to enter international shipping lanes.
Status Update: The Centuries and its cargo remain under U.S. control, while global oil markets monitor the situation for potential supply disruptions or a direct military clash.
