US authorities seize Venezuelan-linked oil tanker in latest operation

US Military Seizes Oil Tanker with Links to Venezuela

A video released by the US military shows troops boarding an oil tanker, which is believed to have ties to Venezuela. According to officials, the vessel was captured in the Caribbean. This marks the sixth ship to be seized as part of a shadow fleet of vessels claimed to be breaching US sanctions.

The US government has stated that the ships are violating US regulations by transporting goods subject to economic restrictions imposed on Venezuela. The seizures have been ongoing since 2022, with multiple vessels being detained and impounded.

Details about the latest seizure are limited, but officials confirm that it occurred in the Caribbean region. The video footage shows US military personnel boarding the tanker, which is reportedly carrying cargo linked to Venezuela.

The incident has sparked renewed attention on the issue of sanctions evasion. The US government has maintained its stance on enforcing economic restrictions aimed at Venezuela, citing concerns over human rights and democratic governance.

The seized vessel’s ownership and operations are currently under investigation by US authorities. Further information about the tanker’s cargo and intended destination is not available at this time.

Source: Al Jazeera