Sanctioned Tanker Hyperion Enters Venezuelan Waters, Challenging Trump’s 'Total And Complete Blockade'

Ship-tracking data show the Gambia-flagged tanker Hyperion—sanctioned by the United States on January 10, 2025—was tracked near a refinery off Amuay Bay after transiting the Caribbean, a move that appears to test President Donald Trump’s declaration of a “total and complete blockade” on such vessels.

The Hyperion’s presence in Venezuelan waters was recorded on Friday by maritime monitoring services that track AIS signals and vessel movements. US authorities designated the vessel as sanctioned earlier this month in an effort cited by Washington to reduce Russian energy revenues.

CNN has contacted the US State Department for comment on the Hyperion’s movements and on how the administration is enforcing the blockade; officials had not immediately responded at the time of reporting.

Diplomatic and Legal Stakes

Venezuelan officials denounced the blockade as “a reckless and serious threat,” and vowed to defend the country’s sovereignty and national interests. International law experts say blockades can, under some treaties and conventions, be treated as acts of war—raising complex diplomatic and legal questions about the US measure and its enforcement.

Broader US Campaign

The blockade followed a US seizure last week of another sanctioned oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast. Washington has also announced a series of sanctions targeting shipping companies, vessels, and individuals it says facilitate Venezuelan oil shipments. Among those named were three nephews of First Lady Cilia Flores and other associates tied to President Nicolás Maduro; additional sanctions announced Friday targeted other members of Maduro’s network, including a sister‑in‑law.

US officials frame these actions as part of a months-long pressure campaign against the Maduro government and efforts they describe as combating drug trafficking. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accuses the US of pursuing regime change and seeking control of the country’s territory and resources; US authorities reject that characterization and accuse Maduro of illegitimacy and involvement in narcotics trafficking. Reporting has also cited lethal strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific tied to the broader regional campaign, a claim that has drawn scrutiny and calls for clarification.

CNN reporter Avery Schmitz contributed to this report.