The US Coast Guard intercepted the oil tanker Centuries on December 20, 2025, in international waters off Venezuela. The vessel, carrying Venezuelan crude, belongs to a China-based oil company.
The operation underscores heightened US enforcement against Venezuelan oil exports amid geopolitical tensions, leaving specific market impacts uncertain, without direct links to cryptocurrency markets.
US Coast Guard Seizes Oil Tanker ‘Centuries’
On December 20, 2025, the US Coast Guard conducted an operation on the oil tanker Centuries in international waters. The vessel, owned by a China-based company, was transporting Venezuelan crude oil, but was not on the sanctions list.
Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, confirmed the interception on social media. In her words, “In a dawn operation today, December 20, the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, intercepted an oil tanker that had recently docked in Venezuela,” and “We will continue pursuing the illicit movement of sanctioned oil used to finance narco-terrorism in the region. We will find them and we will stop them.” The operation aims to curb the movement of sanctioned oil used to finance regional narco-terrorism. President Trump supports these measures, emphasizing the need to reclaim US energy rights.
Interception’s Ripple Effects on Global Oil Trade
The Coast Guard’s interception may elevate tensions around US enforcements on Venezuelan oil exports. Involved parties have yet to make any public financial adjustments or market-related changes. Details on specific cryptocurrency market impacts remain undefined.
Previous geopolitical sanctions have disrupted oil import patterns affecting global markets. Repeated enforcement actions might lead to increased scrutiny of similar trades. Current reports suggest no immediate impact on cryptocurrencies or financial instruments directly tied to the incident.
Recent Pattern of US Actions on Venezuelan Oil
Last week, another Venezuelan oil tanker, Skipper, was seized by US authorities marking a pattern in sanctions enforcement. These interceptions signify a strategic stance by the US on Venezuelan oil, previously seen in 2023 blockades.
Kanalcoin experts suggest repeated sanctions could influence global oil stability, indirectly affecting commodity-backed digital assets. Their analyses underscore the significant influence geopolitical events have on broader economic structures, including financial and technology sectors.
| Disclaimer: This website provides information only and is not financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments are risky. We do not guarantee accuracy and are not liable for losses. Conduct your own research before investing. |
