US seizes two 'shadow fleet' tankers linked to Venezuelan oil

BBC News - WorldEN 5 min read 100% complete January 7, 2026 at 11:28 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

The United States seized two tankers, the Russian-flagged Marinera in the North Atlantic and the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean, for allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil in violation of sanctions. The Marinera was boarded after a nearly two-week pursuit, with logistical support from the British Navy. The US accused the M/T Sophia of illicit activities and received cooperation from Venezuelan leadership regarding this seizure. Russia has condemned the seizure of the Marinera, demanding proper treatment and repatriation of its crew. The US claims the Marinera was a stateless "shadow fleet" vessel operating under a false flag. The US intends to sell the seized oil and control the distribution of proceeds to benefit the Venezuelan people.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Caracas 30% North Atlantic 40% Pete Hegseth 40% British Navy 40% Marinera 50% M/T Sophia 50% Donald Trump 50% Marco Rubio ×260% Nicolás Maduro (Maduro) 60% Russia ×470% Venezuela ×780% United States ×1090%

Keywords

venezuelan oil 100% oil tankers 90% us seizure 80% shadow fleet 70% economic sanctions 60% crude oil exports 50% russian flag 50% illicit activities 50% caribbean 40% north atlantic 40%