The Trump administration announced the seizure of oil tankers that were operating outside US sanctions. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the seized vessels were linked to Venezuela’s “shadow fleet,” emphasizing the strict enforcement of sanctions. One of the tankers, Bella One, was seized following a judicial warrant issued by a US federal court after being tracked for transporting sanctioned oil.
Leavitt confirmed the seizure of another tanker, Sofia, as part of a broader enforcement effort. The operation, involving multiple US agencies, was carried out without incident in international waters. The US Coast Guard is escorting the Sofia to the United States for further action, highlighting the administration’s commitment to enforcing its sanctions policy.
The administration’s focus on maritime enforcement aims to disrupt illicit oil trade connected to sanctioned governments. By targeting revenue streams through maritime interdictions and vessel seizures, the US seeks to counter false flags and stateless shipping networks involved in illegal oil activities.
