In a recent development, US military forces intercepted the sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker, Veronica III, in the Indian Ocean. This action comes as part of a broader effort to target illicit oil connected to Venezuela, which has faced US sanctions on its oil for several years. The Pentagon tracked the Veronica III from the Caribbean Sea after it left Venezuela on January 3.
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This interception marks the second time in recent weeks that US forces have boarded a Venezuela-linked oil tanker in the Indian Ocean. The Pentagon had previously intercepted the Aquila II in a similar fashion about a week ago. These actions are part of a larger strategy to enforce a quarantine of sanctioned tankers, which was ordered by former US President Donald Trump to pressure then-President Nicolás Maduro.
The interception of the Veronica III underscores the US government’s commitment to cracking down on illicit oil smuggling and enforcing sanctions against Venezuela. The shadow fleet of falsely flagged tankers used by Venezuela to circumvent sanctions has been a persistent challenge for US authorities.
While the US military’s actions have been aimed at disrupting Venezuela’s illicit oil trade, they have also raised concerns about the use of military force in international waters. Some critics argue that intercepting ships in the Indian Ocean sets a dangerous precedent and could lead to escalation in maritime conflicts.
Overall, the interception of the Veronica III highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the ongoing struggle between the US and Venezuela. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these actions will impact the broader relationship between the two countries and the global oil market.
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References:
– Times of India: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/international-waters-are-not-sanctuary-us-forces-intercept-sanctioned-venezuelan-ship-veronica-iii-in-indian-ocean-video/articleshow/128386139.cms
– The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/15/us-forces-board-second-venezuelalinked-oil-tanker-in-indian-ocean
– Washington Times: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/feb/15/tracking-oil-tanker-caribbean-us-military-boards-indian-ocean/
– Straitstimes: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/us-forces-board-ship-in-indian-ocean-that-fled-caribbean-blockade-pentagon
– NDTV: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/us-military-boards-sanctioned-oil-tanker-veronica-iii-in-indian-ocean-11007913
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