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US Coast Guard engages in high-seas pursuit near Venezuela
The US Coast Guard is actively tracking a vessel suspected of violating sanctions in international waters off Venezuela's coast, according to a US official speaking to CBS News on Sunday. The ship, described as part of Venezuela's "illegal sanctions evasion" network, is accused of flying a false flag and is subject to a judicial seizure order.
Recent seizures and rising tensions
This latest pursuit follows the interception of two oil tankers this month, including one seized on Saturday. The Panamanian-flagged vessel, boarded by a US tactical team, was not listed on the Treasury Department's sanctioned ships roster but was reportedly transporting oil linked to Venezuela's state-owned PDVSA. Records reviewed by BBC Verify show the tanker has previously sailed under Greek and Liberian flags.
Venezuela condemns US actions as 'theft'
Venezuela's government has denounced the seizures as "theft and kidnapping," vowing to escalate the dispute through formal complaints to the United Nations Security Council and other international bodies. The country, which holds the world's largest proven oil reserves, relies heavily on export revenues to fund government operations.
"These acts will not go unpunished,"
Venezuelan government statement
US ramps up military pressure
In recent weeks, the US has expanded its military footprint in the Caribbean, conducting strikes on vessels allegedly involved in drug smuggling. These operations have resulted in approximately 100 fatalities, though congressional scrutiny over the lack of public evidence linking the ships to narcotics trafficking has intensified.
Last week, President Donald Trump ordered a blockade targeting sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuelan waters. Data from TankerTrackers.com indicates that over 30 of the 80 vessels in or near Venezuelan waters are currently under US sanctions.
Diplomatic standoff deepens
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared on Friday that the "current status quo with the Venezuelan regime is intolerable," framing the administration's actions as part of a broader strategy to alter the political dynamic in Caracas. Venezuela's Foreign Minister accused Rubio of advocating for "regime change," a claim the US has not substantiated.
The Trump administration has also imposed sanctions on President Nicolás Maduro's relatives and affiliated businesses, alleging ties to a designated terrorist organization, the Cartel de los Soles-a charge Maduro vehemently denies.
