U.S. Southern Command continues to track the “dark fleet” linked to Venezuela

The United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed that it continues to actively track the so-called "dark fleet" linked to illegal oil transportation to and from Venezuela, as part of operations to curb illegal activities in the region.

During a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, the head of Southern Command, General Francis L. Donovan, stated that these vessels are part of networks used to evade international sanctions.

"South Command continues to track the 'dark fleet,' those vessels that have been identified transporting illicit oil to or from Venezuela," stated the military high command.

The term “dark fleet” refers to a group of vessels that operate under covert practices, such as disabling tracking systems, changing flags, or transferring cargo at sea, with the aim of avoiding international controls and maintaining the flow of sanctioned crude oil.

The statements come amid an intensification of U.S. operations in the Caribbean, where naval forces and federal agencies have intercepted and confiscated several vessels linked to these networks in recent months.

These actions are part of a broader strategy by Washington to cut off illicit funding sources associated with the Venezuelan regime and other criminal structures in the Western Hemisphere.

According to Donovan, the Southern Command is working in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of State, and the Department of Justice, with the aim of strengthening maritime surveillance and combating illegal trafficking in the region.

In recent months, the United States has intensified pressure on these operations, including the seizure of oil tankers and the tracking of dozens of suspicious vessels that are part of this clandestine maritime network.

The offensive is part of the so-called Operation Southern Spear, a campaign that combines military capabilities, intelligence, and interinstitutional cooperation to combat drug trafficking and illicit trade in the Caribbean and areas near Venezuela.