The United States has intensified its "pressure campaign" against the Venezuelan government, with the U.S. Coast Guard currently in active pursuit of a third oil tanker in international waters. This marks the third high-stakes maritime operation in less than two weeks, following President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a total oil "blockade" aimed at crippling the administration of Nicolas Maduro.
The latest target, identified by maritime security sources as the Bella 1, is a "dark fleet" vessel accused of evading international sanctions to transport crude for Venezuela and Iran.
The Bella 1, a very large crude carrier (VLCC), was empty and approaching Venezuela on Sunday. It was previously sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for its ties to Iran and has a history of transporting Venezuelan oil to China.
This operation follows the successful interception of two other vessels. The first, the Skipper, arrived at the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) near Houston on Sunday to offload its cargo via smaller tankers.
The U.S. has significantly ramped up its military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific. Officials report over two dozen military strikes on vessels in the region, a strategy that has reportedly resulted in at least 100 fatalities.
Oil Prices in Global markets responded immediately, with Brent crude rising to $60.89 and WTI to $56.89.
Analysts warn that targeting vessels not currently under formal sanctions (as seen in Saturday’s interception) signals an escalation that could further restrict Venezuelan exports and force production cuts as storage tanks reach capacity.
Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, downplayed concerns over domestic fuel price hikes, stating the seizures target "black market" ships and should not disrupt legitimate global supply.
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