>At a Glance
> – U.S. forces boarded oil tanker Olina in Caribbean
> – 5th seizure since Trump expanded Venezuela oil control
> – Tanker suspected of carrying 707,000 barrels of embargoed oil
> Why it matters: The operation signals escalating U.S. intervention in Venezuela’s oil industry
U.S. forces launched another predawn raid in the Caribbean, seizing the Olina tanker suspected of carrying embargoed Venezuelan oil. The operation marks the fifth such seizure as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to control Venezuela’s oil production and distribution.
The Seizure
Marines and Navy sailors from the USS Gerald R. Ford conducted the operation before dawn. Southern Command declared “no safe haven for criminals” as forces took control of the vessel.
Coast Guard personnel later assumed control of the Olina, which had departed Venezuela attempting to evade U.S. forces.
Vessel Details
The Olina has quite the history:
- Previously sanctioned for transporting Russian oil
- Flagged in Panama under name Minerva M
- Currently flies Timor-Leste flag with false registration
- Owner changed to Hong Kong company in July
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Oil Cargo | 707,000 barrels |
| Market Value | $42 million |
| Current Price | $60/barrel |
Operations Timeline
Friday’s raid represents part of broader U.S. strategy:
- 30-50 million barrels expected for sale
- Proceeds to benefit U.S. and Venezuelan people
- $100 billion investment planned for infrastructure
Trump met with oil executives discussing rebuilding Venezuela’s battered industry.
Venezuela’s government acknowledged working with U.S. authorities to return the tanker.
Key Takeaways
- 5 tankers seized total under expanded operations
- $100 billion investment planned for Venezuela oil
- 30-50 million barrels expected for sanctioned sale
- Joint operations signal unprecedented cooperation
The seizures demonstrate escalating U.S. intervention in Venezuela’s oil industry as part of broader economic strategy.
