U.S. military forces successfully seized control of a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela in a strategic move by the Trump administration to assert authority over the country’s oil reserves. The operation, conducted by U.S. Southern Command, involved the apprehension of the Motor Vessel Sagitta, which was found operating in violation of President Trump’s imposed sanctions on vessels in the Caribbean. The specifics of whether the U.S. Coast Guard directly managed the tanker during the seizure remain undisclosed.
The Sagitta, a vessel flying the Liberian flag and reportedly owned by a Hong Kong-based company, was last tracked over two months ago departing the Baltic Sea in northern Europe. The tanker had been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department under an executive order related to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The Southern Command emphasized that the captured tanker had taken oil from Venezuela, stressing the importance of ensuring that all oil exports from the country comply with legal protocols. Visual footage shared by the military command depicted the Sagitta at sea, notably absent of scenes showing U.S. forces approaching the vessel as previously seen in similar incidents.
Following the controversial removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a surprise operation, the Trump administration has been actively pursuing control over the oil industry in Venezuela. Trump’s administration is strategically targeting the tankers to secure revenue and kickstart the recovery of Venezuela’s oil sector and economy. The President highlighted plans to invest $100 billion in Venezuela for oil production enhancements during recent discussions with oil industry leaders.
The initial seizure of a tanker occurred on December 10 near Venezuela’s coast, with subsequent captures primarily concentrated in the region. The Bella 1, however, was intercepted in the North Atlantic after deviating from its course towards Europe. Trump’s administration has indicated a prolonged presence in managing Venezuela’s affairs post-Maduro’s removal, with Delcy Rodríguez appointed as the interim president.
Rodríguez announced the reception of $300 million from oil sales under a supply deal established with Caracas. The funds are intended for market stabilization and protecting the financial interests of Venezuelan workers. Before Maduro’s ousting, the U.S. had intensified pressure on Caracas through military operations, tanker seizures, and anti-drug missions in the region, sparking speculations regarding potential U.S. intervention in Venezuela.
