Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated significantly over recent weeks, with developments that are increasingly relevant for maritime traffic in the Caribbean Sea. While no formal declaration of war has been made, a combination of U.S. enforcement actions at sea , heightened military activity , and strong political rhetoric from Caracas has created a volatile operating environment for commercial and private vessels. For navigators, this situation represents a maritime security risk scenario , rather than a conventional armed conflict. U.S. Interdiction and Seizure Operations According to Reuters, the United States has already seized at least one tanker carrying Venezuelan oil and is preparing to seize additional vessels suspected of violating sanctions. These actions are being conducted under the justification of sanctions enforcement and counter-narcotics operations. From a maritime perspective, this signals: Increased boarding and interdiction...