The United States is pursuing a third oil tanker associated with Venezuela while tensions between Washington and Caracas escalate. According to a US official, the vessel is classified as a “sanctioned dark fleet vessel” involved in Venezuela’s efforts to evade sanctions. The official noted that it is “flying a false flag and under a judicial seizure order.” While US authorities have not confirmed the pursuit publicly, details regarding the tanker’s name and exact location have not been disclosed.
This latest development follows the recent seizure of two oil tankers earlier this month. One of these vessels was intercepted on Saturday in international waters by a specialized US tactical boarding team. This tanker, which was flying a Panamanian flag, was not listed on the US Treasury’s sanctions register. Nevertheless, Washington claimed it was transporting “sanctioned PDVSA oil.” Shipping records from BBC Verify indicate that the tanker previously operated under Greek and Liberian flags.
Responses from Venezuela and the US Government
Venezuelan officials have condemned the seizures, labeling them as “theft and kidnapping.” The government has stated its intention to file formal complaints with the United Nations Security Council and other multilateral bodies to address these actions. President Donald Trump ordered a “blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, alleging that Caracas uses oil revenues to fund drug-related activities. Venezuela, which possesses the world’s largest proven oil reserves, has dismissed these allegations and accused the Trump administration of attempting to steal its resources.
Data from TankerTrackers.com reveals that over 30 of the approximately 80 vessels operating in or approaching Venezuelan waters were under US sanctions as of last week. Oil exports are vital to Venezuela’s economy and government financing, and the ongoing tensions over its oil shipments have significant implications.
In recent weeks, the United States has bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean, conducting operations against alleged Venezuelan drug-smuggling boats. These operations reportedly resulted in approximately 100 fatalities. Additionally, Washington has imposed sanctions on relatives of President Nicolás Maduro and businesses connected to what it describes as his illegitimate government.
Political Implications and Military Actions
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Friday that the ongoing situation with the Venezuelan leadership is “intolerable for the United States.” He emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to changing the current dynamic. In response, Venezuela’s foreign minister criticized these remarks, accusing Rubio of pushing the US toward a policy of “regime change.”
The US military’s actions have come under increasing scrutiny from Congress, particularly regarding the strikes against Venezuelan vessels. Critics have pointed out the lack of public evidence to substantiate claims that the targeted vessels were involved in drug trafficking. President Maduro has denied allegations from the US that he leads the Cartel de los Soles, which Washington has designated as a terrorist organization.
As the situation unfolds, the international community remains watchful of the implications for both US-Venezuelan relations and global oil markets, given Venezuela’s critical role as a major oil producer. The ongoing tensions and military activities signal a complex geopolitical landscape that could further evolve in the coming weeks.
