The United States is considering deploying additional Coast Guard resources to intercept and seize an oil tanker that has been attempting to evade boarding by U.S. authorities in Caribbean waters, reports Reuters.
The tanker has refused routine boarding attempts, requiring the involvement of highly specialized Coast Guard teams trained for complex and high-risk operations, including helicopter-assisted boardings. However, the limited availability of these units — many of which are currently assigned to other missions — has slowed enforcement efforts.
Operational constraints come into focus
The situation has highlighted broader capacity challenges facing the Coast Guard as it manages an expanding range of responsibilities, from maritime security and sanctions enforcement to drug interdiction and border protection. While the service has unique legal authority to board and seize vessels on the high seas, officials are proceeding cautiously due to staffing and equipment constraints.
At present, enforcement planners are awaiting the redeployment or reinforcement of specialized teams before attempting another boarding. Officials stress that any action must balance legal authority, crew safety and operational readiness.
Sanctions enforcement in the spotlight
The pursuit of the tanker comes amid heightened U.S. efforts to clamp down on maritime sanctions evasion, particularly involving vessels that obscure tracking data or attempt to operate outside established monitoring systems. These practices have increasingly drawn attention from U.S. authorities seeking to strengthen oversight of international shipping routes.
The administration has emphasized that maritime enforcement remains a priority, with U.S. forces actively monitoring suspect movements in the region. Recent operations underscore a growing focus on vessels believed to be operating as part of informal or opaque trading networks.
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Source: Reuters
