U.S. Forces Seize Sanctioned Venezuelan Oil Tanker in Caribbean Operation
MIAMI, Fla. — In a decisive maritime operation aimed at curbing illicit oil transport in the Western Hemisphere, U.S. military forces apprehended the Motor Vessel Sagitta, a sanctioned Venezuelan tanker, in Caribbean waters on January 20, 2026. The seizure was conducted without incident as part of U.S. Southern Command’s ongoing efforts to enforce sanctions and disrupt unauthorized oil shipments from Venezuela.
The operation, known as Operation Southern Spear, is a coordinated mission involving multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard. Officials emphasized that the apprehension of the Sagitta underscores the United States’ commitment to enforcing President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels operating in the Caribbean region.
Video footage released by Southern Command showed the tanker navigating the open ocean with personnel visible on deck during the interception. U.S. military officials stated that this action demonstrates the joint force’s resolve to ensure that Venezuelan oil exports comply with lawful and coordinated channels, reinforcing regional security and stability.
“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,” a Southern Command spokesperson said. “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.”
This latest seizure follows a series of similar operations aimed at disrupting illicit Venezuelan oil shipments, which have been a significant concern for U.S. policymakers seeking to uphold sanctions and limit the Venezuelan regime’s ability to circumvent international restrictions. The effort reflects a broader strategy to combat illegal maritime activity that threatens economic and national security interests.
The Department of Defense, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard, continues to monitor maritime traffic and enforce sanctions rigorously. According to official Defense Department releases, these operations are critical to maintaining lawful commerce and deterring illicit activities in the Caribbean and surrounding waters.
The Motor Vessel Sagitta’s seizure highlights the complexity of maritime interdiction efforts and the importance of interagency cooperation. The U.S. Coast Guard, which plays a vital role in maritime law enforcement, works closely with military and homeland security partners to identify and intercept vessels violating sanctions.
As the geopolitical landscape in Latin America remains volatile, the United States has intensified its focus on enforcing sanctions against the Venezuelan government, which is subject to numerous economic restrictions due to concerns over human rights abuses and corruption. The interdiction of vessels like the Sagitta is part of a comprehensive approach to apply pressure on the Venezuelan regime and disrupt its illicit revenue streams.
Further details regarding the disposition of the Motor Vessel Sagitta and any subsequent legal actions have not been disclosed. However, the operation reinforces the U.S. government’s stance on maritime security and its determination to uphold international law in the region.
For ongoing updates on maritime security operations and sanctions enforcement, the public can refer to official communications from the U.S. Southern Command, Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
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