Is the US Actively Pursuing a Third Oil Tanker Near Venezuela?
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Synopsis
The US has ramped up its efforts to intercept a third oil tanker linked to Venezuela amid ongoing sanctions. As tensions rise, the implications for both nations could be significant. Will this lead to further confrontations in the region? Discover the unfolding situation in this detailed report.
Key Takeaways
- US Coast Guard pursuing a third tanker linked to Venezuela.
- Recent interceptions include the Centuries and Skipper.
- Venezuela's oil exports are crucial for its economy.
- Accusations of piracy have been made against the US actions.
- Geopolitical tensions continue to escalate in the region.
Washington, December 22 (NationPress) Reports indicate that the US is currently actively pursuing a third oil tanker in international waters close to Venezuela, according to various news outlets on Sunday.
A US official informed NBC News, “The United States Coast Guard is in active pursuit of a sanctioned dark fleet vessel that is involved in Venezuela's illegal sanctions evasion. This vessel is flying a false flag and is subject to a judicial seizure order.”
Earlier reports from Bloomberg News noted that the tanker, named Bella 1, was boarded by US personnel while it was heading to Venezuela to load cargo. The pursuit is reportedly ongoing.
If apprehended, this tanker will mark the third vessel associated with the oil-rich South American country to be intercepted by the US in just under two weeks, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Just a day prior, the US Coast Guard boarded the Centuries, a Panamanian-flagged supertanker not listed under Washington's sanctions. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated on X that the crude oil aboard the Centuries came from Petróleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA), Venezuela's state-owned oil company, which is under US sanctions.
On December 10, US forces seized the tanker Skipper near Venezuelan waters, announcing plans to retain its oil cargo.
On December 16, US President Donald Trump mandated a “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, designating Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's government as a “foreign terrorist organization.”
According to TankerTrackers.com, numerous tankers on the US sanctions list remain in Venezuelan waters. Oil exports are considered the backbone of Venezuela's economy, generating the majority of its foreign revenue.
Venezuela has accused Washington of attempting to instigate regime change and military expansion in Latin America, condemning the interception of oil tankers as “piracy.”
Point of View
The interception of oil tankers raises critical questions about international law and the balance of power in the Americas. While the US aims to enforce sanctions, the accusations of piracy from Venezuela highlight the ongoing struggle for sovereignty and rights over natural resources. It remains imperative to approach such developments with a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted implications involved.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the US to pursue these oil tankers?
The US is seeking to enforce sanctions against Venezuela, which is accused of evading these sanctions through illegal oil exports.
How many tankers have been intercepted recently?
The US has intercepted two tankers in the last two weeks, with the third currently under pursuit.
What is the significance of oil exports for Venezuela?
Oil exports are vital for Venezuela's economy, accounting for the majority of the country's foreign revenue.
