On January 9, 2026, the Associated Press issued a correction regarding the number of oil tankers seized by U.S. forces in the Caribbean Sea. Contrary to its earlier report, which stated that five tankers had been captured since the ousting of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, the correct figure is three tankers.
Clarification on Seizures
The correction highlights the ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela, particularly in the context of oil trade and maritime operations. Since Maduro was removed from power, U.S. forces have actively targeted vessels suspected of transporting oil from Venezuela, aiming to disrupt the regime’s economic activities.
According to the Associated Press, the misstatement regarding the number of seized tankers has been addressed to ensure accurate reporting on this sensitive issue. The United States continues to enforce sanctions against Venezuela, which it accuses of engaging in illicit oil sales and supporting activities that undermine democratic governance.
Impact on U.S.-Venezuela Relations
The seizure of oil tankers has become a point of contention in U.S.-Venezuela relations. The U.S. government has stated that such actions are necessary to curb the revenue streams of the Maduro regime, which has faced international condemnation for its human rights abuses and authoritarian governance.
As maritime operations continue, analysts are closely monitoring the implications of U.S. actions on both regional stability and global oil markets. The correction issued by the Associated Press serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in reporting on geopolitical issues that have far-reaching consequences.
