US Forces Seize Sanctioned Vessel During Caribbean Operation Against Illegal Oil Shipments

U.S. Military Seizes Sanctioned Oil Tanker in Caribbean Operation

U.S. military forces have apprehended another sanctioned tanker vessel in the Caribbean, according to an announcement made Tuesday by the Department of War. The vessel, identified as “Motor Vessel Sagitta,” was seized without incident as part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere.

U.S. Southern Command released footage showing the vessel moving through the ocean with individuals visible on the ship’s deck during the operation. This marks the latest seizure in what appears to be an intensifying crackdown on vessels violating international sanctions.

“The apprehension of another tanker operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean demonstrates our resolve to ensure that the only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully,” officials stated on social media.

Military officials emphasized that the security of American citizens remains the primary motivation behind these operations. “As the joint force operates in the Western Hemisphere, we reaffirm that the security of the American people is paramount, demonstrating our commitment to safety and stability,” the statement continued.

The seizure was conducted under Operation Southern Spear (#OpSouthernSpear), a collaborative effort involving multiple federal agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, and the Justice Department. The coordinated approach highlights the administration’s whole-of-government strategy to enforce maritime sanctions.

This latest interception represents a significant escalation in enforcement actions targeting Venezuela’s oil industry. The South American nation, which possesses the world’s largest proven oil reserves, has been under increasingly strict U.S. sanctions designed to pressure the government and restrict its revenue sources.

The oil industry has long been the economic backbone of Venezuela, accounting for more than 95% of the country’s export earnings. However, years of mismanagement, corruption, and international sanctions have severely impacted production capacity, causing output to fall dramatically from its peak of over 3 million barrels per day in the late 1990s to current levels estimated at less than 800,000 barrels daily.

Global energy markets have been closely monitoring these enforcement actions, as any disruption to Venezuelan oil shipments—even those conducted through sanctions-evading channels—can influence regional supply dynamics and potentially affect prices. Though Venezuela’s reduced production capacity has limited its global market impact in recent years, the symbolic value of these seizures sends strong signals to other potential sanctions violators.

Maritime law experts note that these types of seizures operate in complex legal territory, involving aspects of international law, maritime regulations, and bilateral agreements. The U.S. has increasingly used its naval power to enforce economic sanctions as part of its foreign policy toolkit.

For shipping companies and maritime insurers, these operations represent heightened risk for vessels involved in trade with sanctioned entities or nations. Industry analysts suggest that the risk premium for shipping in the Caribbean region may increase if these enforcement actions continue or expand.

Venezuelan officials have previously condemned similar operations as violations of sovereignty and international law. The Venezuelan government has sought alternative markets for its oil, primarily through deals with countries like China, Russia, and India, which have been less inclined to adhere to U.S. sanctions.

The U.S. Southern Command has not yet released details about the crew of the Sagitta, the vessel’s cargo, or its ultimate destination. However, this seizure follows similar patterns of enforcement seen throughout the region in recent months.

Military officials indicated that additional information regarding this operation will be forthcoming as the situation develops.