U.S. Warship Severs Russia-Venezuela Maritime Communications with Direct Tanker Blockade

The United States has effectively disrupted maritime traffic between Russia and Venezuela. On November 21, 2025, the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Stockdale intercepted the Cameroon-flagged oil tanker Seahorse (IMO 9266750) off the Venezuelan coast, forcing it to alter course and abandon its voyage.

According to reports from both Russian and Western outlets, including Bloomberg and Army Recognition, the destroyer deliberately crossed the tanker’s path as it sailed its regular route from Cuba to Venezuela. Despite two additional attempts to reach Venezuelan waters, the Seahorse was blocked each time and eventually drifted aimlessly in international waters before the journey was canceled.

The Seahorse is one of four vessels regularly used to deliver petroleum products and other cargo to Venezuela — all of which are currently under U.S., EU, and UK sanctions. The U.S. Navy described the USS Stockdale’s operation as part of broader efforts to counter transnational smuggling.

The incident has intensified criticism of U.S. enforcement tactics at sea and underscored Washington’s growing pressure on shipping routes connecting Russia and Venezuela.