Venezuela's Oil Tanker Grabbed by U. S. in Cuba Aid Row

A recent incident involving an oil tanker named Skipper has brought attention to Venezuela's long-standing practice of sending oil to Cuba. The tanker, which set sail from Venezuela on December 4, was carrying nearly two million barrels of heavy crude oil. Its initial destination was the Cuban port of Matanzas, according to internal data from Venezuela's state oil company, PDVSA. However, the journey took an unexpected turn. Just two days after departure, the Skipper transferred about 50, 000 barrels of oil to another vessel, the Neptune 6, which then headed towards Cuba. Meanwhile, the Skipper continued eastward towards Asia with the remaining oil, as reported by a U. S. official familiar with the situation. This incident is part of a broader pattern. For years, Venezuelan leaders, including current President Nicolás Maduro and his predecessor Hugo Chávez, have been sending oil to Cuba at significantly reduced prices. This practice has been a lifeline for Cuba, providing much-needed resources at a minimal cost. The U. S. seizure of the Skipper highlights the ongoing tensions and complex relationships between these countries. It also raises questions about the future of Venezuela's oil industry and its role in international politics.