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U.S. Tightens Grip on Venezuelan Oil as Tankers Intercepted and Russia Reported to Escort One

Trump says the U.S. will take 30–50 million barrels with proceeds under his control, signaling an assertive bid to manage Venezuela’s oil flows.

Overview

  • U.S. authorities intercepted two Venezuelan-linked tankers, including the vessel formerly known as Bella 1 and renamed Marinera near the North Atlantic, with international reports saying Russia deployed a submarine to escort it.
  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright told industry executives the U.S. will market stored Venezuelan crude now and, he said, sell the country’s production on an ongoing basis, with meetings set this week with major oil companies.
  • Trump announced that Venezuela will deliver between 30 and 50 million barrels of crude to the U.S. and said the resulting revenue will be controlled by him as president.
  • Nicolás Maduro remains in U.S. custody after a New York court appearance as Venezuela’s institutions swore in Delcy Rodríguez as acting president following a declaration of “forced absence.”
  • Mexico’s president condemned the U.S. operation as a violation of non-intervention principles, Russia protested maritime actions, and analysts at UBS warned the turmoil could increase volatility in Latin American assets.