In a surprising move lacking official explanations, the United States has returned an oil tanker to Venezuela that was seized earlier in January.
Two U.S. officials confirmed to Reuters that the vessel, known as the M/T Sophia, was handed back to Venezuelan authorities.
The tanker, flying a Panamanian flag, was intercepted on January 7 by the U.S. Coast Guard and military forces while it was transporting crude oil.
At that time, Washington labeled the Sophia as a "stateless tanker," part of a "dark fleet" under international sanctions.
Reports indicate that the Sophia had been anchored off the coast of Ponce, Puerto Rico, since January 21, alongside another seized oil tanker.
There is no clarity on whether the vessel was returned with its oil cargo or under what terms the transfer took place, as highlighted by the source.
The U.S. government has not commented on the reasons behind this gesture, and Venezuela's Ministry of Communication, responsible for media responses, also remained silent, emphasized Reuters.
The ship's return occurs amidst shifts in the bilateral relationship following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the commencement of a transition process led by interim President Delcy Rodríguez under Washington's supervision.
The Trump administration has focused its policy towards Latin America on rebuilding Venezuela's energy sector and temporarily controlling its oil resources, as recently explained by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Both officials assert that their goal is to ensure transparency in managing the nation's assets and to prevent them from falling back into the hands of the Chavista regime.
According to maritime industry experts cited by Reuters, many vessels involved in Venezuelan oil trade were constructed over two decades ago and operate without proper safety certifications or insurance, posing a significant environmental risk.
Key Questions About the U.S. and Venezuela Oil Tanker Incident
Why was the M/T Sophia initially seized by the United States?
The tanker was intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard and military forces because it was described as a "stateless tanker" associated with a "dark fleet" under international sanctions.
What are the implications of returning the tanker to Venezuela?
The return of the tanker could signify a shift in U.S.-Venezuela relations, especially in the context of recent political changes, and raises questions about the conditions under which the transfer was made.
What concerns exist regarding the vessels used in Venezuelan oil trade?
Experts point out that many of these vessels are outdated, lacking proper safety certifications and insurance, which poses a considerable environmental threat.