SAEDNEWS: A Venezuela-linked tanker is still being chased by U.S. authorities in Caribbean waters, refusing to let Coast Guard crews board as specialized teams move into position for a possible forced seizure.
The vessel, known as Bella 1, continues moving while cutters and surveillance aircraft take turns monitoring it, Military.com reported Saturday.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) provided Military.com with updated export figures showing Venezuela’s oil destinations.
The data indicates a decline in oil shipments to the U.S. and a near doubling of exports to China. Malaysia also saw an increase, which analysts say reflects complex ownership chains and ship-to-ship transfers that make cargo more difficult to track.
Analysts caution that even if Bella 1 is intercepted, other vessels can reroute shipments, ensuring continued revenue for Maduro’s government.
