The US government has announced consecutive operations against two tankers linked to Venezuelan oil exports. The operations took place in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, resulting in direct intervention by US forces.
According to BBC News, the tanker Marinera, flying the Russian flag, was intercepted in waters between Iceland and Scotland after an approximately two-week pursuit. During the operation, the British Royal Navy provided logistical support with air and sea assets.
The US side accused the MT Sophia tanker, seized in the Caribbean, of illegal activities. An official statement indicated that this tanker was involved in the transportation of crude oil of Venezuelan origin.
According to information, these steps are part of the US strategy to sharply restrict the export of Venezuelan crude oil. The incidents occurred a few days after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was detained by special forces at his residence in Caracas.