**Excerpt:** U.S. military forces have seized the fifth oil tanker associated with Venezuela as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illicit oil trafficking.
**Key Points:**
– The U.S. Coast Guard and Navy seized the Olina oil tanker in the Caribbean.
– The tanker was previously sanctioned for transporting Russian oil under a different name.
– This operation is part of a broader U.S. strategy to control Venezuela’s oil distribution.
– The Olina is categorized as a “ghost fleet” tanker, attempting to evade detection.
– Homeland Security emphasizes a commitment to enforcing U.S. and international law against illicit activities.
U.S. Forces Interdict Olina Tanker
On January 9, 2026, U.S. Southern Command confirmed the seizure of the Olina, the fifth oil tanker linked to Venezuela. The operation was conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard, supported by the Navy, and involved Marines and sailors launched from the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier.
Operation Details
The pre-dawn operation aimed to support the Department of Homeland Security in its mission to curb illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere. U.S. Southern Command stated that this action demonstrates the commitment of joint interagency forces to eliminate safe havens for criminals.
Background on the Olina
The Olina, which was previously known as Minerva M, was sanctioned for transporting Russian oil. Although it is currently flagged in Timor-Leste, it has been identified as operating under a false flag, indicating invalid registration. The vessel last transmitted its location in November, positioned north of Venezuela, and has since been operating without a location beacon.
Broader Context
The seizure of the Olina aligns with U.S. efforts to control the global distribution of Venezuela’s oil products following the ousting of former President Nicolás Maduro. Recently, two other tankers linked to Venezuela were apprehended, highlighting a pattern of U.S. military intervention in the region.
Statements from Officials
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem referred to the Olina as a “ghost fleet” tanker, emphasizing the importance of enforcing U.S. laws against sanctioned oil transportation. She asserted that such vessels would not escape justice under false claims of nationality.
As the U.S. continues to focus on Venezuela’s oil wealth, former President Trump has indicated plans for significant investment in the country’s oil infrastructure, aiming to stimulate economic recovery and benefit energy consumers.
These developments reflect ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela regarding oil distribution and international law enforcement efforts.
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