The United States has seized another oil tanker in the Caribbean as part of its expanding effort to enforce sanctions on Venezuela, marking the fifth vessel intercepted in just a few weeks. The ship, Olina, was taken during a coordinated military operation aimed at stopping what U.S. officials describe as illegal oil shipments designed to bypass international restrictions.
Targeting Venezuela’s ‘Ghost Fleet’
According to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the Olina was part of a so-called “ghost fleet” — tankers that allegedly conceal their true ownership and destinations to move embargoed oil. Authorities say the vessel departed Venezuela and attempted to evade U.S. surveillance before being intercepted.
The operation took place before dawn, with U.S. Coast Guard units supported by U.S. Marines and Navy personnel launching from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. Video footage released by U.S. Southern Command showed forces descending from helicopters and securing the ship at sea.
Part of a Wider Naval Blockade
The seizure comes amid a significant U.S. naval buildup in the Caribbean, ordered by President Donald Trump as part of a broader campaign to restrict Venezuela’s oil exports. Since the blockade was announced, U.S. forces have taken control of multiple tankers, including one linked to Russia that was seized in the North Atlantic — an action that drew sharp criticism from Moscow.
U.S. officials say the operations are meant to send a clear signal that sanctioned oil shipments will not be tolerated, regardless of how vessels attempt to disguise their movements or national affiliations.
Global Reaction and Long-Term Implications
The aggressive enforcement has raised questions internationally about maritime law and the long-term impact on global shipping routes. While Washington argues the seizures are lawful and necessary, critics warn the strategy could escalate tensions and disrupt energy markets.
Trump has suggested the United States could oversee Venezuela’s oil sector for an extended period, telling The New York Times that U.S. involvement could last far longer than months. For now, the seizure of the Olina underscores how far the administration is willing to go to tighten its grip on Venezuela’s oil trade — and signals that more interdictions may be ahead.
