U.S. forces intercepted an oil tanker near Venezuela on Saturday
This was the second such action in less than two weeks
The move signals a sharp escalation by President Donald Trump
Trump has ordered a blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil
The tanker, named Centuries, was stopped before dawn
U.S. Coast Guard led the operation with Defense Department support
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the action
A U.S. helicopter deployed personnel onto the vessel
The tanker was flying the flag of Panama
It had recently docked in Venezuela
U.S. officials claim the oil was sanctioned
The boarding was described as voluntary and “consented”
The legality of the seizure remains disputed
A maritime expert said the vessel appeared properly registered
Despite this, the oil likely violated U.S. sanctions
Experts call the move a major escalation
The goal appears to be deterrence of other tankers
Venezuela condemned the action as “criminal”
Caracas vowed to pursue legal action internationally
Complaints may be filed at the United Nations
Trump has warned President Nicolás Maduro’s days are numbered
The U.S. demands compensation for seized American oil assets
Trump claims Venezuela “stole” U.S. energy rights
Some tankers are already diverting away from Venezuela
The U.S. links oil trafficking to narcoterrorism
Military pressure in the region continues to grow
Warships have been deployed to the Caribbean
Human rights groups are raising serious concerns
Venezuela says the real aim is regime change
The standoff marks one of the most dangerous phases yet
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