US Intercepts Oil Tanker Near Venezuelan Coast, Officials Confirm as Washington steps up enforcement of oil sanctions. The US intercepts an oil tanker near the Venezuelan coast, officials confirm story highlights growing pressure on Caracas and stricter control of sanctioned oil movement. Officials said the maritime interception happened in international waters, but close to Venezuela’s coastline.
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the US oil tanker interception through an official statement. She said the vessel was carrying sanctioned oil and was stopped to protect maritime security. The action follows a wider US military build-up in the Caribbean Sea. According to officials, the US Coast Guard carried out the operation after tracking the ship’s route. The tanker had recently docked in Venezuela, which raised concerns over oil smuggling. Authorities believe such shipments help fund illegal networks and narco terrorism activities.
The White House stated the ship was a falsely flagged vessel linked to the Venezuelan shadow fleet. Officials also claimed the tanker was part of efforts to bypass US sanctions enforcement. This policy aligns with the Trump Venezuela policy and the announced oil blockade. Venezuela strongly rejected the claims and accused the United States of international piracy. The Venezuelan oil ministry and PDVSA said the incident threatens lawful Venezuelan oil exports. Caracas announced plans to raise the issue at the United Nations Security Council.
Maritime experts noted the vessel was likely a Panama-flagged vessel intercepted east of Barbados. They warned that such actions increase US-Venezuela tensions, but also deter illicit oil trafficking. Similar interceptions have increased during recent months.
In conclusion, the US intercepts an oil tanker near the Venezuelan coast, and officials confirm the incident shows tougher maritime control. It also signals stronger enforcement against sanctioned oil routes in the region.
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US Intercepts Oil Tanker Near Venezuelan Coast, Officials Confirm, as US Coast Guard enforces sanctions and tightens maritime security.
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