News · 11 December 2025
US seizes Venezuelan oil tanker. Maduro protests
US forces seized the oil tanker Skipper off Venezuela's coast Wednesday in a rare helicopter operation, with armed personnel rappelling onto the vessel. The tanker was sanctioned for transporting oil from Venezuela and Iran, supporting terrorist organizations. Venezuela condemned the action as international piracy and blatant theft, escalating tensions as Trump's administration increases pressure on President Maduro. The operation involved Coast Guard and Navy personnel operating from the USS Gerald Ford carrier, representing an uncommon type of maritime enforcement action.
Reported by CNN · How we write briefs