U.S. seizes two more Venezuelan-linked tankers in international waters

U.S. authorities say they took control of two Venezuelan-linked tankers, including the Marinera, and that the crews may face prosecution; maritime analysts say more seizures of shadow-fleet vessels are likely.

The United States reported it took control of two additional tankers tied to Venezuela, including the Marinera, which was intercepted off the coast of Iceland with U.K. assistance. Officials described the actions as part of a wider effort to interdict vessels linked to sanctioned oil shipments. U.S. Southern Command also took control of a separate tanker in the Caribbean that was reported to be carrying a large cargo of oil. Experts say these moves follow earlier seizures in December and that further interdictions are possible. Key facts: - U.S. authorities, with U.K. help in at least one case, seized the Marinera in international waters; the ship was subject to a U.S. federal warrant related to transporting sanctioned Iranian oil. - The U.S. Southern Command took control of the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean; the vessel was reported to be carrying oil likely destined for China. - U.S. officials stated the crew of seized vessels are subject to prosecution and could be brought to the United States. - Maritime analysts say a group of shadow-fleet tankers with opaque ownership and frequent flag changes has been involved in sanctions-evasion practices, and some recently re-flagged to Russia; Russian officials called the Marinera seizure illegal and sought humane treatment and return of crew. Summary: The U.S. has expanded recent maritime seizures of Venezuelan-linked tankers and officials say legal action against crews is possible. Experts expect more interdictions of shadow-fleet vessels, while the broader international and legal responses remain undetermined at this time.