US Intercepts Ship Transporting Illicit Fuel to Cuba

Washington, United States: The US Coast Guard has intercepted a vessel secretly transporting oil to Cuba in direct violation of a US blockade imposed in January.

A tactical team boarded the M/V Grace in the Caribbean Sea after discovering the ship carrying fuel.

Authorities stated the vessel utilised ‘dark fleet’ tactics, intentionally concealing its origin, ownership, and destination to evade sanctions. Escorted to Progreso, Mexico, the Mexican navy confirmed large quantities of fuel hidden within the ship's ballast tanks.

This operation highlights an aggressive maritime crackdown on illicit shipments heading to the island. Earlier this summer, the Coast Guard similarly boarded and detained the Jaira Provider, another substandard vessel attempting to deliver fuel to Cuba.

Tensions between Washington and Havana have intensified since President Donald Trump returned to power in January 2025, declaring the nation an extraordinary threat.

The resulting de facto oil embargo on the island of 9.4 million people has triggered a deep economic and energy crisis.