Trump Says U.S. Seized Oil Tanker Off Venezuelan Coast

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Tyler Pager, Eric Schmitt and Nicholas NehamasDecember 10, 2025 at 11:35 PM

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On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the United States seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, according to an announcement by President Trump. U.S. officials stated the Coast Guard conducted the seizure in international waters after deliberate planning, encountering no resistance from the crew. This action is part of a broader pressure campaign against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, which includes a buildup of U.S. forces in the Caribbean and recent strikes against boats suspected of drug smuggling. While the administration has considered various military options in Venezuela, Trump has expressed reservations about direct action against Maduro. The seizure occurred on the same day a Venezuelan dissident was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nicolás Maduro ×4100% Donald J. Trump ×3100% United States ×4100% Venezuela ×3100%

Keywords

oil tanker seizure 90% venezuela 80% u.s. military action 70% nicolás maduro 70% pressure campaign 60% u.s. coast guard 50% international waters 50% caribbean 40% covert action 40%