US pursues third oil tanker linked to Venezuela
Washington, Dec. 22 (Hibya) – The US Coast Guard is continuing the “active tracking” of another vessel in international waters near Venezuela as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
US authorities have already seized two oil tankers this month.
According to a US official, Sunday’s tracking involves a “sanctioned dark fleet vessel that is part of Venezuela’s illegal sanctions evasion.” The official said the vessel “is sailing under a false flag and is subject to a judicial seizure order.”
Washington accuses Venezuela of financing drug-related crimes with oil revenues, while Venezuela has described the tanker seizures as “theft and kidnapping.”
US President Donald Trump last week ordered a “blockade” against sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving the country.
Venezuela, which holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves, accused the Trump administration of trying to steal its resources.
US officials have not yet officially confirmed Sunday’s tracking, and the exact location and name of the tanker involved are still unknown.
British News Agency
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