Sanctioned Tanker Enters Venezuela Despite U.S. Blockade

A U.S.-sanctioned oil and chemical tanker entered Venezuelan waters on Friday, despite President Donald Trump’s declaration of a “total and complete blockade” on such vessels.

Ship tracking data shows the Gambia-flagged tanker Hyperion near a refinery at Amuay Bay after sailing through the Caribbean. The vessel was sanctioned in January as part of efforts to curb Russian energy revenue.

Venezuela has condemned the blockade as a “reckless and serious threat,” while Washington has escalated sanctions against allies of President Nicolás Maduro.

The US imposed additional sanctions Friday on other Maduro family members, including his sister-in-law.

The sanctions are part of a monthslong pressure campaign against the Venezuelan government. The US has carried out deadly military strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific and mounted economic pressure against Caracas as part of what it has described as a war against drug trafficking.

Maduro has said that the US is seeking regime change along with ownership of Venezuela’s territory and resources. The US has resisted that characterization, accusing Maduro of being illegitimate and a narco-trafficker.