US seizes another oil tanker linked to Venezuela, officials say

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 9, 2026 at 04:34 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

U.S. forces seized the Olina, a fifth oil tanker linked to Venezuela, in the Caribbean Sea, as part of ongoing efforts to control Venezuelan oil exports. The U.S. Southern Command and Department of Homeland Security coordinated the seizure, alleging the tanker was attempting to evade U.S. forces after departing Venezuela with embargoed oil. This action follows the recent seizure of two other tankers, including the Russian-flagged Marinera, in the North Atlantic and Caribbean, with assistance from the UK Royal Navy in one instance. The U.S. alleges these tankers are part of a "ghost fleet" violating sanctions by carrying oil for Venezuela, Russia, and Iran. The U.S. aims to restrict Venezuelan crude oil exports, with plans to sell seized oil and control the proceeds to benefit the Venezuelan people.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nicolás Maduro (Maduro) 40% Vanguard Tech 40% Curacao 40% United Kingdom Royal Navy 40% Russia 40% Marinera ×250% Kristi Noem 50% Caribbean Sea ×260% Department of Homeland Security 60% Olina ×470% Venezuela ×880% United States ×1090%

Keywords

oil tanker seizure 100% venezuelan oil 90% us sanctions 80% maritime blockade 70% shadow fleet 60% caribbean sea 50% oil exports 50% illicit activities 40%