Tanker Seizures Near Venezuela Spark UN Security Row
Tanker Seizures Near Venezuela Spark UN Security Row
Global tensions rise as U.S. seizures of Venezuelan oil tankers trigger back-and-forth accusations, a new piracy bill, and a tense UN Security Council session.
The United States has stepped up actions near Venezuela by seizing oil tankers in international waters, part of a four-month pressure campaign on Maduro.
The Coast Guard seized the Panama-flagged vessel Centuries, with Navy support later detaining a rogue tanker named Skipper; a third vessel is said to be under pursuit as authorities monitor activity close to Venezuela's maritime lanes.
Back in Caracas, Maduro's government condemned the moves as extortion, arguing they threaten regional stability. Washington insists the seizures target sanctioned shipments and aim to prevent enforcement evasion by Venezuela's oil fleet.
In Caracas, the opposition including Nobel laureate María Corina Machado has voiced support for what it calls a hard line against Maduro’s regime, aligning with some aspects of Washington's policy. Separately, the National Assembly, controlled by Maduro's party, advanced a bill criminalising acts that hinder navigation or cross-border commerce, with penalties up to 20 years in prison and fines.
The bill would require the executive branch to provide protections and incentives for entities doing business with Venezuela if piracy, blockades or related unlawful acts occur. It now awaits Maduro's signature.
The incidents have triggered international debate with an emergency UN Security Council session called to discuss the seizures. Venezuela has denounced the moves as extortion and piracy, while the United States defends its actions as enforcing sanctions and maritime law. Legal experts warn the developments could redefine norms around seizure of vessels in international waters and heighten tensions in the region.
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