Motor Vessel Sagitta

The Motor Vessel Sagitta is an oil tanker recently seized by United States military forces in the Caribbean Sea. This action is part of a broader US effort, initiated in January 2026, to assert control over Venezuela's oil production and sale, specifically targeting what the US deems illicit oil transport. The Sagitta is the seventh tanker apprehended in connection with this campaign. US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) oversaw the operation, stating the seizure occurred "without incident." The US alleges the Sagitta was operating in defiance of US sanctions against Venezuela. This event highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and Venezuela regarding oil resources and the US government's strategy of enforcing sanctions through military intervention in the Caribbean maritime region.