US seizes second merchant vessel off coast of Venezuela in international waters: report

The action follows the Dec. 10 seizure of an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast by U.S. forces.

Published: December 20, 2025 2:24pm

Updated: December 20, 2025 3:50pm

U.S. military forces intercepted a second merchant ship in international waters near Venezuela on Saturday, according to two American officials familiar with the operation cited by the Associated Press.

Other reports said the ship was an oil tanker.

U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Special Reaction Team (MSRT) and the U.S. Navy were reportedly behind the operation.

The action comes just days after President Donald Trump announced what he described as a “blockade” targeting oil tankers linked to sanctions as they enter or leave the South American nation.

It also follows the Dec. 10 seizure of an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast by U.S. forces.

Details about the latest interception, including the vessel’s destination and cargo, were not immediately disclosed. The officials said the operation remains ongoing. 


 

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