US Seizure of Oil Tankers: Reactions from Russia and China

The recent seizure of sanctioned oil tankers by the United States near Venezuela has sparked intense reactions from Russia and China. In a special meeting of the United Nations Security Council held on December 23, 2025, both countries condemned the US actions, highlighting concerns over international law and state sovereignty.

Condemnation at the UN Security Council

During the session, Russian Ambassador to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, referred to the US maneuvers as a “flagrant aggression” against a sovereign state, labeling them as “pseudo-legal methods” that infringe upon international law. In a similar vein, the Chinese Ambassador warned that these actions violate the UN Charter and threaten peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Emergency Session Called by Venezuela

The emergency session, requested by the Venezuelan government, drew support from both Moscow and Beijing. Over the course of December, the US has confiscated at least two oil tankers it identifies as part of a clandestine fleet through which Venezuela has been evading sanctions.

Accusations of Intimidation

In response to the ongoing situation, Russia accused the US of “cowboy behavior” and intimidation tactics. Meanwhile, China criticized the escalation of military and economic pressure on Caracas, set against a backdrop of increased regional tensions.

US Response and Justifications

US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, asserted that Washington would do “everything in its power” to safeguard its hemisphere, borders, and citizens. He defended the sanctions and the interception of sanctioned tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. Ambassador Waltz reiterated that the US would impose maximum sanctions to deprive Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of resources he allegedly uses to finance the Cartel of the Suns, designated by the US as a terrorist organization. He referred to Venezuela’s oil exports as the “economic lifeline” of what he termed an illegitimate government accused of facilitating drug trafficking to both the US and Europe.

Escalating Military Pressure

The statements at the UN come amid rising US military pressure on Maduro’s government. Notably, former President Trump suggested that the US might keep the oil from the seized tankers and potentially retain the vessels themselves. Additionally, US Southern Command reported a military operation against a vessel suspected of drug trafficking in international waters, resulting in one death. Since September, around 100 persons have died in US attacks against alleged “narco-boats” in the Caribbean and Pacific.

Maduro’s Response

In Caracas, Nicolás Maduro has labeled the tanker seizures as acts of “piracy,” accusing Washington of attempting to appropriate his country’s oil reserves and orchestrate his ousting.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding the US seizure of oil tankers near Venezuela underscores the complexities of international relations and the conflicting interests of global powers. As tensions escalate, the implications for regional stability and security remain significant.

Key Takeaways

• Russia and China have condemned the US seizure of oil tankers near Venezuela as a violation of international law.
• The emergency session of the UN Security Council highlighted rising tensions in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• The US maintains its stance against Venezuela, focusing on sanction enforcement and military operations.
• Nicolás Maduro has accused the US of “piracy” and seeking to control Venezuela’s oil resources.