The United States Coast Guard has intercepted a third oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela, according to American officials. This marks the third such interception in less than a week, as the US intensifies pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the officials confirmed the latest interception occurred on Sunday. While the name of the tanker was not immediately released, authorities stated it was subject to existing sanctions.
Other reports identify the tanker as the “Bella 1,” sailing under a Panamanian flag and reportedly en route to Venezuela to load a shipment. This follows the interception of the supertanker “Centuries” earlier on Saturday and the “Skipper” on December 10th.
The increased maritime activity signals a hardening stance from Washington, with some officials suggesting that all options remain on the table regarding Venezuela.
Previously, the US announced a blockade targeting all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. The US government justifies these measures by accusing Venezuela of using its oil resources to fund illicit activities, including drug trafficking and terrorism. Furthermore, recent accusations have included claims that Venezuela has stolen oil and land belonging to the United States.
Venezuela has responded to the US actions with strong condemnation. Venezuelan officials warned that these actions would not go unpunished, and that the matter would be brought before the United Nations Security Council.
Venezuela denies any involvement in drug trafficking and accuses the US of seeking to overthrow President Maduro in order to seize control of the country’s vast oil reserves. Venezuela’s oil industry has been under international scrutiny and sanctions for some time.
