Operation comes days after US seized Russian-flagged tanker; US pledges to continue blockade following Maduro abduction.
A United States military helicopter flies over the Panama-flagged Centuries in the Caribbean Sea on December 20, 2025 [Department of Homeland Security handout via Reuters]
The United States has seized a fifth oil tanker, the Olina, in the Caribbean Sea — part of an intensified U.S. campaign to enforce sanctions and block the export of Venezuelan oil.
U.S. forces, including Marines, Navy personnel, and the Coast Guard, boarded and took control of the ship in international waters.
The tanker was previously sanctioned and is suspected of transporting embargoed or sanctioned oil tied to Venezuela or its network of trading vessels sometimes referred to as a “shadow fleet.”
🇺🇸 U.S. Government Position
U.S. officials say these actions enforce sanctions imposed on Venezuela’s oil trade, aiming to cut off revenue that they argue funds illicit networks and supports the Maduro regime.
The effort includes maintaining a blockade and maritime patrols to intercept tankers suspected of violating U.S. sanctions.