The United States has seized another oil tanker in its ongoing crackdown on Venezuelan oil exports, marking the fifth vessel captured in recent weeks as US naval forces expand their presence in the Caribbean.
Ghost Fleet Under Scrutiny
US Homeland Security Secretary Noem described the seized tanker, Olina, as part of a “ghost fleet” — ships suspected of disguising their identities to transport embargoed oil. The vessel had departed Venezuela and attempted to evade American forces before being intercepted.
“The ghost fleets will not outrun justice,” Noem said, emphasizing that vessels using false identities would be held accountable. The US Coast Guard carried out the seizure as part of broader sanctions enforcement.
Military Precision at Sea
Southern Command reported that Marines and Navy personnel executed a pre-dawn operation from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest. Video footage released by the military showed US forces rappelling from helicopters to take control of the ship.
This operation is part of a wider campaign in which US forces have also struck suspected drug-trafficking vessels and seized multiple tankers in the Caribbean.
Trump Hints at Long-Term Oversight
President Trump announced last month that he ordered a blockade on sanctioned oil shipments traveling to and from Venezuela. Among the seized ships was one with alleged Russian links, drawing criticism from Moscow.
Trump suggested US oversight of Venezuela’s oil sector could last “much longer” than initially expected, signaling that tensions with Caracas are likely to continue.
