Washington: The United States has ramped up its enforcement of sanctions on Venezuelan oil shipments with the boarding of a fifth oil tanker. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reported that the US Coast Guard executed a boarding and seizure of the Motor Tanker Olina in international waters, east of the Caribbean Sea.

According to Anadolu Agency, the tanker was part of a 'ghost fleet' suspected of carrying embargoed oil from Venezuela and was attempting to evade US forces. The operation was supported by multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, the State Department, and the Justice Department. Noem emphasized that interagency coordination ensured the operation was conducted safely and lawfully.

The US continues to target Venezuelan oil exports as part of its strategy to pressure the Venezuelan government. This latest action underscores Washington's commitment to enforcing the sanctions regime and preventing unauthorized oil shipments from reaching international markets. The boarding of the Olina marks a significant step in the US's broader efforts to curb Venezuela's oil trade amidst ongoing political tensions.