US seizes fifth oil tanker as Venezuela pressure campaign continues

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Joseph StepanskyJanuary 9, 2026 at 03:29 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

In January 2026, the United States military seized its fifth oil tanker, the Olina, in the Caribbean as part of its ongoing pressure campaign against Venezuela. This action follows the seizure of two other tankers, including a Russian-flagged vessel, in the preceding days. The US Southern Command stated the Olina was "apprehended without incident," though details of the alleged violations were not immediately provided. The US Department of Justice is investigating the crew of the Marinera for failing to comply with coastguard orders. These seizures are part of a broader US effort, including a blockade, to pressure Venezuela to sever ties with Russia and China and open its oil reserves to US companies, following the abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

The Wall Street Journal 40% China 40% US Department of Justice 50% Caribbean ×250% Marinera 60% Southern Command 60% Donald Trump 60% Russia ×370% Nicolas Maduro (Maduro) ×270% Olina 70% Venezuela ×480% United States ×890%

Keywords

oil tanker seizure 100% us venezuela relations 90% sanctions 80% maritime law 70% russian oil 60% us military 60% blockade 50% nicolas maduro 50% international law 40%