The United States has seized another tanker in its ongoing effort to enforce sanctions on Venezuela, marking the fifth vessel intercepted in recent weeks amid a growing naval presence in the Caribbean.
Targeting the “Ghost Fleet”
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the seized tanker, Olina, as part of a “ghost” fleet — vessels accused of hiding their identities to transport embargoed oil. The ship reportedly left Venezuela attempting to evade US forces before being captured.
“No ghost fleet will outrun justice,” Noem said, emphasizing that vessels using deceptive tactics will be held accountable. The operation was carried out by the US Coast Guard as part of the sanctions enforcement effort.
A High-Stakes Military Operation
US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) reported that Marines and Navy personnel launched a pre-dawn operation from the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier. Video released by the military showed forces rappelling from helicopters to take control of the tanker.
The seizure is part of a broader campaign in the Caribbean that has seen US forces intercept multiple tankers and strike suspected drug-trafficking vessels, according to Channel News Asia.
Trump Signals Extended Pressure
President Donald Trump confirmed last month that he ordered a naval blockade of sanctioned oil shipments to and from Venezuela. Among the seized ships was a Russia-linked tanker, an operation condemned by Moscow, as reported by InfoMarine.
Trump also suggested that US oversight of Venezuela’s oil could last “much longer” than initially expected, signaling that Washington’s pressure on Caracas is likely to continue well into the future.
