WASHINGTON: The United States has seized an oil tanker near the coast of Venezuela, identifying the vessel as “The Skipper.”
According to U.S. authorities, the ship is allegedly linked to an illegal shipping network accused of supporting terrorist organizations.
The U.S. Attorney General claimed that the vessel had long been under sanctions and was being used for the unlawful transport of oil from Venezuela and Iran.
The operation to seize the tanker was carried out jointly by the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Coast Guard, with support from the Department of Defense.
Media reports suggest that President Trump has intensified efforts to increase pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, and the seizure is seen as part of this broader campaign.
