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US forces have seized a fifth oil tanker, the Olina, in the Caribbean as part of ongoing efforts to control Venezuelan oil exports. The operation aims to exert pressure on Venezuela's interim government and dismantle the "dark fleet" of over 1,000 tankers transporting sanctioned oil. Already under sanctions, the Olina continues a recent trend of US interventions in the region.

Background details reveal that this incident is part of a larger US campaign initiated by the Trump administration. The Olina was previously sanctioned in January for alleged involvement in financing Russia's military activities by transporting oil. Recent weeks have seen multiple seizures, including two other tankers linked to Venezuelan oil, as the US intensifies its blockade efforts.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the operation, a dawn raid executed by Marines and sailors, as both “safe” and “effective”. The seized vessel attempted to evade US forces by leaving Venezuelan waters under a false registration from Timor-Leste. Experts from Vanguard Tech noted the vessel had been untraceable for over 50 days, confirming its covert operations.

Looking to the future, speculation regarding US and Venezuelan relations continues. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned the possible sale of seized oil, valued at 100 billion Thai baht, to benefit the Venezuelan populace. Meanwhile, US diplomats are assessing the potential reopening of the embassy in Caracas, reflecting early talks to restore relations severed in 2019, reported the BBC.

Key Takeaways:

• The US seizes a fifth Venezuelan-linked oil tanker in a Caribbean operation.

• The Olina, part of over 1,000 tankers, was targeted amid ongoing sanctions.

• Diplomatic movements hint at the potential restoration of US-Venezuelan ties.

Related Stories:

US Seizes Second Oil Tanker Amid Venezuela Tensions

US Seizes Russian Oil Tanker After High Seas Drama

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-10

 

 

 

America really is great again. The great thievery.

What do they do with the boats and their cargo afterwards?