The United States has intercepted another tanker attempting to transport sanctioned Venezuelan oil, marking the fifth seizure in recent weeks amid an expanded naval presence in the Caribbean.
Ghost Fleet Targeted
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the vessel, Olina, was part of a “ghost” fleet, ships that allegedly disguise their identities to carry embargoed oil. The tanker departed Venezuela and tried to evade US forces before being captured. Noem warned, “The ghost fleets will not outrun justice,” with the operation carried out by the US Coast Guard, according to report.
Military Precision in Action
US Southern Command confirmed that Marines and Navy personnel participated in a pre-dawn operation launched from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest. Video released by the military showed troops rappelling from helicopters to take control of the ship at sea, highlighting the scale and coordination of the effort. Details were further outlined by source.
Trump Signals Long-Term Strategy
President Donald Trump previously announced a blockade of sanctioned oil shipments to and from Venezuela. Among recent seizures was a tanker linked to Russia, prompting condemnation from Moscow, as reported by source. Trump also suggested US oversight of Venezuela’s oil sector could last “much longer” than anticipated, signaling that Washington’s pressure on Caracas is set to continue.
