US is targeting a third oil tanker associated with Venezuela as tensions surrounding sanctions continue to rise
US authorities are targeting another tanker near Venezuela, alleging sanctions evasion, as oil seizures escalate diplomatic and military tensions.
A US official stated that the United States is currently seeking a third oil tanker associated with Venezuela in international waters, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas.
A US official stated that the vessel is a “sanctioned dark fleet vessel that is part of Venezuela’s illegal sanctions evasion,” further noting that it is “flying a false flag and under a judicial seizure order.” US authorities have yet to officially acknowledge the pursuit, and details regarding the tanker’s name and precise location are still not revealed.
The progression comes after the capture of two oil tankers earlier this month, one of which was intercepted on Saturday in international waters by a specialized US tactical boarding team. The vessel, which was flying a Panamanian flag, was not included on the US Treasury’s sanctions register; however, Washington stated that it was carrying “sanctioned PDVSA oil.” Shipping records examined by BBC Verify indicate that the tanker had previously operated under Greek and Liberian flags.
Venezuela has denounced the seizures, labeling them as “theft and kidnapping,” and cautioned that such actions will not be without consequences. The government announced its intention to file formal complaints with the United Nations Security Council and other multilateral organizations.
Last week, US President Donald Trump issued an order for what he termed a “blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, alleging that Caracas is utilizing oil revenues to fund drug-related crime. Venezuela, possessing the largest proven oil reserves globally, has dismissed the allegations and accused the Trump administration of trying to appropriate its resources.
According to data gathered by TankerTrackers.com, over 30 of the 80 vessels currently operating in or nearing Venezuelan waters were subject to US sanctions as of last week. Oil exports continue to be essential for Venezuela’s economy and the funding of its government.
Recently, the United States has bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean and conducted strikes on suspected Venezuelan drug-smuggling boats, with reports indicating that approximately 100 individuals were killed in these operations. Washington has imposed sanctions on family members of President Nicolás Maduro and enterprises associated with what it characterizes as his illegitimate government.
On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the current circumstances regarding the Venezuelan leadership were “intolerable for the United States,” emphasizing that the Trump administration was committed to altering the situation. Venezuela’s foreign minister condemned the comments, alleging that Rubio is steering the US towards a policy of “regime change.”
The US military is under increasing examination from Congress regarding the strikes, as no public evidence has been provided to substantiate the assertions that the targeted vessels were transporting drugs. President Maduro has refuted US claims that he heads the Cartel de los Soles, which Washington has classified as a terrorist organization.
