U.S. forces seized two tankers, the Russian-flagged Marinera and the MT Sophia, in separate operations in the North Atlantic and the Caribbean, respectively, for allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil in violation of U.S. sanctions. The seizures, which occurred in what U.S. officials described as "back-to-back" operations, are part of an ongoing effort by the U.S. to curtail Venezuelan oil exports.

The Marinera was boarded after a nearly two-week pursuit as it traveled through waters between Iceland and Scotland, with logistical support provided by the British Navy via air and sea. The MT Sophia was seized in the Caribbean, accused by the U.S. of "conducting illicit activities."

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X, stating, "The blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in FULL EFFECT - anywhere in the world."

Moscow condemned the seizure of the Marinera, demanding the U.S. ensure proper treatment of the Russian crew and their swift return to Russia, according to the transport ministry.

These actions follow a recent raid by U.S. special forces targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. The U.S. has been intensifying its efforts to restrict the export of Venezuelan crude oil as part of its broader policy toward the Maduro regime. The sanctions aim to pressure Maduro to step down and allow for free and fair elections.

The U.S. government maintains that these seizures are necessary to enforce its sanctions regime and prevent the Maduro government from benefiting financially from oil sales. However, critics argue that the sanctions are harming the Venezuelan people and exacerbating the country's economic crisis. The situation remains tense, with potential implications for international relations and the global oil market. The U.S. government has not yet released details regarding the fate of the oil cargo or the timeline for the tankers' disposition.