U.S. military forces successfully boarded and gained control of a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela on Tuesday as part of the Trump administration’s strategy to manage the oil resources in the South American nation. The operation, carried out by the U.S. Southern Command, resulted in the apprehension of the Motor Vessel Sagitta, which was operating against President Trump’s imposed quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.
The Pentagon and Southern Command declined to provide further details regarding the incident. The Sagitta, a tanker flying the Liberian flag and owned by a Hong Kong-based company, was last reported in the Baltic Sea more than two months ago. The vessel had been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department due to its involvement in activities related to Russia’s incursion into Ukraine in 2022.
The U.S. Southern Command’s statement indicated that the Sagitta had engaged in oil transactions with Venezuela, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring that only lawfully coordinated oil shipments leave the country. Aerial footage shared by the military command depicted the tanker at sea, although the video did not show any direct U.S. military intervention as seen in previous captures.
Since the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a surprise operation on January 3, the Trump administration has been actively targeting the control of Venezuela’s oil production, refining, and global distribution. The administration aims to monetize the seized tankers to fund the reconstruction of Venezuela’s oil sector and revitalize its economy.
President Trump recently met with oil industry leaders to discuss plans for investing $100 billion in Venezuela for enhancing oil production infrastructure. He highlighted the expectation of selling millions of barrels of Venezuelan oil, noting that significant quantities had already been extracted and sold in the open market.
The seizure of the seventh tanker follows previous captures near Venezuelan waters, with one exception being the Bella 1 taken in the North Atlantic region. The U.S. has intensified its presence and actions in the region, including the interception of drug boats and the buildup of military assets, prompting speculation about potential U.S. intentions regarding Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Following Maduro’s ouster, Delcy Rodríguez assumed the interim presidency in Venezuela, overseeing the initial oil revenue resulting from the supply agreement with the U.S. The country has reportedly received $300 million from oil sales, signaling the commencement of financial transactions under the new arrangement.
The U.S. military’s assertive actions in the region, including the recent tanker seizures, have raised concerns about the possibility of a U.S. intervention in Venezuela. The situation remains fluid as the U.S. continues to exert pressure on Caracas through various means, reflecting the evolving dynamics in the region.