U.S. Military Forces Seize Seventh Sanctioned Oil Tanker Linked To Venezuela
The United States military seized Motor Vessel Sagitta this morning (Tuesday 20th January, 2026) in the Caribbean — marking the seventh oil tanker apprehended in the last month. The announcement was made a short while ago tonight by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which said the tanker was operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.
Through #OpSouthernSpear, the @DeptofWar is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere in partnership with @USCG, @DHSgov and @TheJusticeDept.
— U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) January 20, 2026
This morning, U.S. military forces, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, apprehended… pic.twitter.com/UPADtiw681
According to SOUTHCOM, “Through Operation Southern Spear, the Department of War is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice. This morning, U.S. military forces, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, apprehended Motor Vessel Sagitta without incident. 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. 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.”
SOUTHCOM added, “These operations are backed by the full power of our elite joint force team deployed in the Caribbean.”
More on this as it becomes available.

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