International Maritime & Trade Finance Policy Council

Maritime Cargo Chronicles – January 10, 2026 The U.S. blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers has escalated significantly. On January 7, 2026, U.S. forces seized the MT Marinera , the fifth shadow fleet tanker intercepted since the total blockade began in December 2025. The vessel was carrying approximately 1.2 million barrels of Merey 16 crude. Key Developments: Over 50 tankers remain stalled in Venezuelan waters or Caribbean anchorages, unable to load or depart due to fear of s

Breaking International Shipping News – December 19, 2025 President Donald Trump has ordered a "total and complete blockade" of all U.S.-sanctioned oil tankers in/out of Venezuela, designating the Maduro regime a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Key Developments: Builds on recent seizure of tanker Skipper (2M barrels Merey crude) and new sanctions on vessels/family members. Targets ~30+ shadow fleet tankers in Caribbean; exports sharply down, loaded ships stalled. Venezuela v

In a dramatic escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on December 16-17 a "total and complete blockade" of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela . This targets the shadow fleet carrying PDVSA crude (mainly Merey 16), following the recent seizure of the tanker Skipper (loaded with ~1.8-2M barrels). Key Impacts: Most non-Chevron exports stalled – dozens of tankers anchored in Venezuelan waters, fearing interdiction. Shadow fleet operations (AIS spo