U.S. military forces intercepted and took control of a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela on Tuesday, escalating the Trump administration’s campaign to control the region’s energy resources under a new initiative identified as “Operation Southern Spear.”
The seizure of the Motor Vessel Sagitta occurred in the Caribbean, where American forces have established a blockade to enforce sanctions.
In a statement released shortly after the operation, U.S. Southern Command (SOCOM) confirmed the vessel was apprehended “without incident.” The statement offered the most detailed glimpse yet into the administration’s strategy, framing the move as a joint effort involving the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Coast Guard, the Justice Department, and the “Department of War.”
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“Through #OpSouthernSpear, the @DeptofWar is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere,” the command stated.
While initial reports left the Coast Guard’s role unclear, the new statement confirmed that the operation was conducted in partnership with the agency, with military forces acting in support of DHS.
Official messaging regarding the seizure was blunt regarding American intentions for Venezuelan exports. The command stated that the apprehension of the Sagitta—which was “operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine”—demonstrates a resolve to strictly manage the flow of resources.
“The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully,” the statement read.
Officials emphasized that these maneuvers are backed by the “full power” of an elite joint force team currently deployed in the Caribbean, citing the security of the American people as the paramount driver for the increased military presence.
The Sagitta is expected to be processed similarly to the previous six vessels, solidifying the U.S. hold on the sanction-defying trade route.
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