US Seizes Tanker Bertha for Sanctions Violations in Caribbean
As reported by nv.ua, the United States has seized the tanker Bertha for violating sanctions imposed on ships operating in the Caribbean Sea. According to official data, the crew of Bertha did not resist during detention, and the reason for the seizure was violations of U.S. sanctions.
Bertha became the third vessel to violate the restrictions imposed by the United States on ships in the Caribbean Sea, and its capture occurred after a lengthy pursuit. The tanker is owned by the Chinese company CENTAURUS MIN LTD and operated by SHANGHAI LEGENDARY SHIP MGMT, which manages two other vessels that sail between ports in China, Malaysia, Russia, India, and other countries.
Sanctions Violations: A Growing Concern
The capture of Bertha highlights the growing concern over sanctions violations in the Caribbean Sea. Since December 2025, the United States has captured about ten tankers attempting to violate sanctions on the export of Venezuelan oil. The Pentagon accused the crew of violating the Venezuelan maritime blockade.
On February 9, after a pursuit from the Caribbean Sea to the Indian Ocean, the United States captured the tanker Aquila II. On the night of February 15, the United States conducted a search and detention of the oil tanker VERONICA III, which belongs to Iran’s shadow fleet.
Implications for Global Oil Market
The seizure of Bertha underscores the tightening of the sanctions campaign and creates heightened risks for shipowners trying to circumvent restrictions. At the same time, these actions affect business activity on global routes and are reflected in the dynamics of the oil market. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump discussed a plan to seize tankers with Iranian oil to increase pressure on Tehran.
As the sanctions campaign continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how shipowners will adapt to the changing landscape. However, one thing is clear: the United States is committed to enforcing its sanctions and cracking down on violators.
Original Article: US Seizes Tanker Bertha for Sanctions Violations in Caribbean — Mezha