By Micah Jonah
January 21, 2026
The United States military has seized a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela, tightening control over the country’s oil production and exports.
The tanker, Motor Vessel Sagitta, was captured in the Caribbean by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) as part of a blockade targeting vessels operating under Venezuelan authority.
Officials said the seizure occurred without incident, with US forces boarding the vessel safely.
The tanker operation is part of a broader campaign that began on December 10, 2025, aimed at enforcing sanctions and controlling Venezuelan oil sales. The US has insisted that only oil coordinated and sold under US oversight will leave Venezuela, a move that critics say violates Venezuelan sovereignty.
Tensions peaked earlier this month when US President Donald Trump authorised a military operation to abduct Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
The US has framed the tanker seizures as part of its sanctions enforcement, though the legality of using military force in this context is disputed.
Trump confirmed that the US has taken 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, selling it on the global market, claiming this will lower oil prices. Interim Venezuelan President, Delcy Rodriguez said her government has received $300 million from recent oil sales and is planning reforms to attract foreign investment in the hydrocarbon sector.
The US has also used its control of Venezuelan oil to increase pressure on Cuba, which relies on Venezuelan crude as an economic lifeline.
