In a striking move, loaded oil tankers in Venezuela have begun departing from ports in “dark mode,” shrouding their movements from international radar systems. This practice aims to evade sanctions and scrutiny from foreign governments, particularly the United States, which has imposed stringent restrictions on Venezuelan oil exports due to the country’s political and economic turmoil. By operating in dark mode, vessels disable their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), making it challenging for authorities to track their locations or cargo. This tactic reflects the desperate measures taken by the Venezuelan oil industry, which has suffered from declining production and investment. Moreover, it highlights the ongoing cat-and-mouse game between the Maduro government and international regulators. As geopolitical tensions rise, the implications of such clandestine operations extend beyond economics, influencing global oil markets and raising concerns about maritime security and environmental safety. The international community remains vigilant, responding with measures to disrupt these illicit practices.
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