The United States has seized another tanker as part of its ongoing effort to enforce sanctions on Venezuela, marking the fifth ship apprehended in recent weeks amid a significant naval buildup in the Caribbean.
Ghost Fleet Operation
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the vessel, Olina, as part of a “ghost” fleet — ships suspected of disguising their identity to transport embargoed oil. According to officials, the tanker left Venezuela attempting to evade American forces before being seized.
“The ghost fleets will not outrun justice,” Noem said, emphasizing that vessels hiding under false claims of nationality would face consequences. The seizure was carried out by the US Coast Guard as part of the sanctions effort, according to Euronews.
Coordinated Military Action
US Southern Command stated that Marines and Navy personnel participated in the pre-dawn operation, launching from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest. A video released by the military showed forces rappelling from helicopters to take control of the ship. Additional reporting can be found at ChannelNewsAsia.
Trump Signals Long-Term Strategy
President Donald Trump, who ordered the naval blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil vessels last month, indicated that US oversight of Venezuela’s oil could be extended. One of the seized ships was allegedly linked to Russia, drawing criticism from Moscow, as noted by InfoMarine.
Trump suggested that American control could last “much longer” than initially expected, signaling continued pressure on Venezuela and the possibility of more interceptions in the future.
