U.S. Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tankers Near Puerto Rico in Major Caribbean Crackdown

Post by : Saif Nasser

U.S. authorities have seized several oil tankers linked to Venezuela near the waters of Puerto Rico in what officials described as a major enforcement operation in the Caribbean. The action is part of a broader crackdown on suspected illegal oil shipments and sanctions violations tied to Venezuela’s energy trade.

According to reports, the tankers were intercepted during routine maritime monitoring and later taken into U.S. custody after investigators determined they were allegedly involved in transporting Venezuelan crude oil in violation of international and U.S. sanctions. The vessels were operating under foreign flags and are believed to have used complex shipping routes and documentation to avoid detection.

Officials said the operation involved multiple U.S. agencies, including maritime security and law enforcement units, working together to track suspicious tanker movements across the Caribbean Sea. The seized vessels were escorted to designated ports for further inspection, and crews were questioned as part of the investigation.

The seizure highlights Washington’s continued efforts to enforce sanctions against Venezuela, which have been in place for several years amid concerns over democratic governance, human rights, and corruption. By targeting oil shipments, U.S. authorities aim to cut off a key source of revenue for the Venezuelan government.

Experts say such actions may increase tensions in the region and could affect global oil markets, especially if more tankers are stopped or trade routes are disrupted. However, U.S. officials stressed that the operation was conducted in line with international law and focused on illegal activities rather than lawful maritime commerce.

Further legal proceedings are expected to determine the final status of the seized vessels and any potential penalties. Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing and that additional enforcement actions in the Caribbean cannot be ruled out.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on preliminary reports and publicly available information. Details may change as official investigations continue and authorities release further updates.

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