U.S. Seizes Tanker MT Veronica in Caribbean, Expanding Operation Against Venezuela’s Shadow Fleet

The United States has seized the oil tanker MT Veronica in the Caribbean Sea, marking another escalation in its campaign to disrupt vessels linked to Venezuela’s sanctioned oil trade. The operation forms part of a broader maritime enforcement effort aimed at dismantling so-called “shadow fleet” networks used to transport crude in violation of U.S. restrictions. U.S. officials said the tanker was intercepted and boarded by Coast Guard personnel with support from U.S. Navy assets operating under Operation Southern Spear. The boarding was carried out without resistance, and the vessel was taken under U.S. control pending legal proceedings. Authorities indicated that the tanker had been under surveillance due to its suspected involvement in sanctioned oil movements. The seizure of MT Veronica follows a series of similar actions in recent weeks, as U.S. forces have intensified patrols and interdictions across the Caribbean and Atlantic regions. Officials describe the campaign as a shift toward direct maritime enforcement, targeting vessels themselves rather than solely penalizing cargo owners or operators. U.S. authorities argue that the shadow fleet relies on deceptive shipping practices, including frequent flag changes, altered vessel identities, and complex ownership structures designed to obscure ties to sanctioned entities. By seizing vessels engaged in these activities, officials say they aim to deter future violations and disrupt illicit supply chains. The operation has drawn criticism from Venezuela and some international observers, who argue the seizures overstep international maritime norms. U.S. officials maintain that the actions are lawful and conducted under established legal authorities to enforce sanctions and uphold maritime security. As Operation Southern Spear continues, industry analysts say the seizures are likely to heighten caution among shipowners, insurers, and charterers operating in the region. The expanding enforcement campaign underscores the growing role of naval and coast guard forces in policing global energy trade amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Cargo Vessel Drifts at Istanbul Anchorage After Engine Failure

Cargo Vessel Drifts at Istanbul Anchorage After Engine Failure A cargo vessel temporarily lost maneuverability after suffering an engine failure while anchored off Istanbul, causing it to drift in the busy Sea of Marmara and prompting a rapid response from Turkish maritime authorities. The incident raised safety concerns due to the high density of vessels operating in the anchorage area. According to maritime officials, the vessel experienced a sudden propulsion breakdown while at anchor, leaving it unable to maintain position against wind and current. As the ship began drifting, authorities were alerted to the risk of potential collision with nearby anchored vessels and port infrastructure. Turkey’s Directorate General of Coastal Safety deployed tugboats to assist the stricken ship. The response teams were able to secure the vessel and guide it to a safer position, preventing further movement and stabilizing the situation. No injuries to crew members were reported, and there was no indication of pollution or cargo damage.

Turkmenistan Rescues Crew From Distressed Iranian Cargo Vessel in Caspian Sea

Turkmenistan Rescues Crew From Distressed Iranian Cargo Vessel in Caspian Sea Turkmenistan’s maritime authorities have successfully rescued 14 crew members from an Iranian cargo ship that became distressed in the Caspian Sea, according to official statements. The operation was carried out after the vessel issued an emergency call, prompting a swift response from coastal rescue services. The Iranian-flagged cargo ship encountered difficulties while sailing in Turkmenistan’s area of responsibility in the Caspian Sea. Upon receiving the distress signal, Turkmenistan’s coast guard and emergency response units were immediately dispatched to assist the vessel and its crew, in line with international maritime safety obligations. Rescue teams were able to evacuate all 14 crew members safely, with no injuries reported. Authorities said the crew included Iranian and Indian nationals. Following the rescue, the seafarers were brought ashore, where they received medical checks and support from local authorities.

Two Merchant Ships Hit in Drone Attacks Near Ukraine’s Southern Coast

Russian forces have struck two civilian merchant vessels in the Black Sea near Ukraine’s southern ports, Ukrainian officials said, in what Kyiv described as a further escalation of attacks on commercial shipping amid the ongoing conflict. According to Ukrainian authorities, unmanned aerial vehicles launched by Russia targeted two foreign-flagged cargo ships operating close to the port of Chornomorsk, a critical hub for Ukraine’s maritime exports. One vessel was waiting to enter port to load agricultural cargo, while the second had recently departed after completing loading operations. The strikes caused damage to both ships and sparked a fire on one of the vessels, which was later extinguished by emergency services. Ukrainian officials reported that at least one crew member was injured and evacuated for medical treatment, while the remaining crew members were unharmed. Despite the damage, one of the vessels was able to continue its voyage under its own power. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba condemned the attacks, stating that civilian shipping and international trade routes were being deliberately targeted. He emphasized that Ukraine’s Black Sea ports play a vital role in global food supply chains and warned that continued strikes threaten maritime safety and economic stability beyond the region. Regional authorities in Odesa said the incident was part of a broader pattern of drone and missile attacks affecting port infrastructure and commercial vessels along Ukraine’s coastline. They noted that such actions increase risks for seafarers and raise costs for ship operators due to higher insurance premiums and security concerns. Russia has repeatedly denied intentionally targeting civilian vessels, maintaining that ships approaching Ukrainian ports could be considered as carrying strategic or military-related cargo. Ukrainian officials and international maritime observers have rejected this claim, arguing that the affected vessels were engaged in legitimate commercial activity. The Black Sea remains a critical but increasingly dangerous route for maritime trade as the conflict continues. Despite mounting security risks, Ukraine and its international partners continue efforts to keep export corridors open, highlighting their importance to global grain and commodity markets.