US Coast Guard Tracks Third Tanker Near Venezuela

The U.S. Coast Guard is currently in "active pursuit" of a third oil tanker off the Venezuelan coast, signaling a major escalation in the Trump administration’s maritime blockade. This latest operation, confirmed by U.S. officials on Sunday, follows the seizure of two other vessels earlier this month as Washington ramps up pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government.

According to federal officials, the vessel currently under pursuit is a sanctioned "dark fleet" tanker suspected of helping Venezuela evade international energy restrictions. Authorities report the ship has been operating under a "false flag" and is subject to a judicial seizure order.

This chase follows the high-profile seizure of the Centuries on Saturday and the Skipper on December 10. While some of these vessels are officially sanctioned, others are being intercepted based on their cargo. The White House maintains that these operations are necessary to disrupt "narco-terrorism" and cut off the financial lifelines of the Maduro regime.

The aggressive stance has sparked a heated response from Caracas. President Maduro has characterized the seizures as "international piracy" and "theft," ordering the Venezuelan navy to escort tankers in defiance of the U.S. fleet.

Domestically, the "total and complete blockade" has faced scrutiny from lawmakers concerned about the potential for open conflict. While White House economic advisors suggest the seizures of "black market" ships will not impact U.S. gas prices, market analysts warn that the rising geopolitical risk could lead to fluctuations in global oil benchmarks as traders assess the stability of Caribbean shipping routes.

Key Takeaways

Third Interception: The U.S. Coast Guard is actively pursuing a third "dark fleet" tanker, marking the third major maritime action in less than two weeks.

Economic Pressure: The operations are part of a broader "total blockade" intended to stop the illicit flow of Venezuelan oil used to fund the Maduro administration.

Rising Conflict Risk: Venezuela has labeled the moves as "piracy," while some U.S. lawmakers warn that these seizures could be a "prelude to war."

Adapted From 

https://news.sky.com/story/us-in-active-pursuit-of-third-vessel-off-venezuelan-coast-officials-say-13486511