The U.S. Coast Guard is actively pursuing an oil tanker that has been under scrutiny for over a week as part of President Donald Trump’s efforts aimed at Venezuela. This development follows reports indicating the tanker attempted to seek Russian protection by displaying a Russian flag on its side.
Identified as Bella 1 by British maritime risk management group Vanguard and a U.S. maritime security source, the vessel is a significant crude oil carrier that was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department last year due to its ties to Iran. President Trump confirmed on December 22 that the U.S. Coast Guard was tracking the tanker, which is believed to be part of Venezuela’s alleged “dark fleet” used to circumvent U.S. sanctions.
Recent actions include a reported strike by the U.S. on a facility in Venezuela where drug-loaded boats are said to be prepared for shipment, marking the first known land operation within Venezuela since the pressure campaign began. Additionally, the CIA reportedly conducted a drone strike on a port facility on the Venezuelan coast believed to be utilized by the Tren de Aragua gang for drug storage and transport onto boats.
The U.S. military also announced a strike against a drug-smuggling boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in two fatalities. These actions form part of the Trump administration’s strategy to combat drug trafficking, which has seen a total of 107 individuals killed in 30 strikes since September.
President Trump’s administration has intensified its military presence in the region, including sending warships and seizing oil tankers, as it aims to disrupt drug cartels and curb narcotics flow into the U.S. This military buildup aligns with the administration’s stance of being in “armed conflict” with drug traffickers, contrasting with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s view that the operations are a ploy to oust him from power.
Notably, in October, Trump disclosed authorizing the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, as part of the broader strategy. The Venezuela government’s press office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the recent developments.
In a recent interview, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles indicated that Trump is resolute in his pursuit, aiming to continue military actions until Maduro yields to pressure.