US pursuing third oil tanker in Venezuela, officials say

Tuesday, December 23, 2025 -The United States Coast Guard is actively pursuing a third oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela, U.S. officials have confirmed, signaling a sharp escalation in enforcement actions tied to sanctions. The move follows recent interceptions of two other vessels allegedly involved in sanctions evasion. 

Authorities say the tanker is suspected of operating as part of a “dark fleet” used to conceal the origin and destination of sanctioned oil, and that it is subject to a judicial seizure order while navigating close to Venezuelan waters.

U.S. officials say the pursuit aligns with a broader policy to tighten pressure on Venezuela’s government by restricting its ability to export oil. American naval and Coast Guard assets have increased patrols in the Caribbean, tracking and attempting to board vessels believed to be violating sanctions. 

The heightened activity reflects a more aggressive posture aimed at enforcing existing restrictions and deterring future attempts to bypass them.

The operation is raising geopolitical tensions in the region. Venezuelan officials have condemned the U.S. actions as unlawful and disruptive, while some regional observers warn the pursuits could strain maritime norms and freedom of navigation. 

As uncertainty grows around shipping routes and enforcement, energy markets are watching closely, with concerns that sustained pressure could disrupt oil flows and add volatility to global prices.