Washington, DC, USA | December 21, 2025
The United States has seized a second Venezuelan commercial vessel, significantly escalating pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government and further disrupting Venezuela’s foreign trade, according to US officials.
The move follows the earlier seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker earlier this month and comes amid growing diplomatic and military tensions between Washington and Caracas.
🚢 Second Venezuelan Trade Ship Taken Into Custody
US officials confirmed that American security forces boarded and took control of the Venezuelan cargo ship in what they described as a “mutually coordinated operation.” The vessel was seized without reported resistance.
The latest action effectively brings Venezuela’s external commercial shipping to a standstill, officials said, as US enforcement expands its reach beyond oil exports to broader trade operations.
⚠️ Following Trump’s Announcement of Maritime Blockade
The seizure comes shortly after President Donald Trump announced a maritime blockade on Venezuela, warning that oil tankers and commercial ships traveling to or from Venezuelan ports would be stopped.
On December 10, US forces seized a Venezuelan oil tanker off the country’s coast, signaling the beginning of stricter enforcement. American naval warships have since been deployed in the Pacific and Caribbean regions, according to defense sources.
🛢️ Dispute Over Nationalized US Oil Assets
President Trump has repeatedly accused the Maduro government of illegally seizing assets belonging to US oil companies years ago. He has demanded their return and warned that continued refusal would lead to increased pressure.
Trump has also publicly stated that Maduro’s government is nearing its end, escalating rhetoric that has raised concerns among international observers.
🇻🇪 Maduro Seeks UN Intervention, Fears Military Action
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appealed to the United Nations, urging the international body to intervene and demand an end to what he calls a US-led blockade.
Venezuelan officials have expressed concern that the trade restrictions could escalate into direct military confrontation, though US authorities have not announced any plans for an attack.
🌐 UN Calls for Restraint
The United Nations has urged both the United States and Venezuela to exercise restraint, warning that further escalation could worsen humanitarian and economic conditions in the region.
No immediate response was issued by Venezuela’s foreign ministry following the latest ship seizure.
