Key facts
- The US Coast Guard intercepted a 300-foot-long cargo ship named "Grace" on September 5.
- The vessel was carrying fuel destined for Cuba.
- The ship was stopped in the Caribbean Sea between Cuba and Mexico.
- The "Grace" reportedly used "dark fleet" maneuvers to evade authorities.
- The interception occurred amid the Trump administration's oil embargo against Cuba.
The US Coast Guard intercepted a large cargo ship named "Grace" carrying fuel bound for Cuba in the Caribbean Sea on September 5, the New York Times reported. The 300-foot-long vessel reportedly used "dark fleet" maneuvers in an attempt to evade authorities. The interception comes as the Trump administration's oil embargo against Cuba continues, aiming to change the island nation's government. This blockade has led to severe fuel shortages and blackouts in Cuba, exacerbated by failing infrastructure. Shipments from traditional suppliers Venezuela and Mexico have ceased following US actions, and sanctions have deterred tankers from sailing to the island. The amount of fuel on board the "Grace" was not specified, and the Coast Guard did not immediately respond to a request for comment.