Story perspectives

U.S. Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker Amid Ongoing Sanctions

1/10/2026

Center

Trump Seizes Tanker

On January 9, 2025, U.S. forces seized the oil tanker Olina, linked to Venezuelan oil exports.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the capture and emphasized cooperation with interim President Delcy Rodríguez.
This marks the fifth seizure of sanctioned vessels since Maduro's ousting.
Analysts say 16 tankers have left Venezuelan waters since the operation began.
Trump stated plans to control Venezuela's oil wealth and to use profits for the Venezuelan people.

Right

Colectivos March Against Maduro

On January 4, members of the colectivos marched in Caracas to express anger over Nicolás Maduro's ousting by a United States military operation.
Jorge Suarez, a colectivo member, described the event as shocking and a betrayal.
Colectivos support interim president Delcy Rodriguez, pledging cooperation with the United States.
Cuba reported 32 of its military personnel died during the operation, condemning it as United States aggression and defending against imperialist threats.

History

Historical Context

In January 2019, the U.S. recognized Juan Guaidó as Venezuela's interim president amid a political crisis following Nicolás Maduro's disputed re-election. The U.S. imposed sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil exports, which constituted 95% of its revenue. This intervention has intensified divisions within Venezuela, leading to protests from colectivos and condemnation from allies like Cuba, reflecting the ongoing geopolitical struggle over the nation's resources.

1 of 3

Trump Seizes Tanker

On January 9, 2025, U.S. forces seized the oil tanker Olina, linked to Venezuelan oil exports.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the capture and emphasized cooperation with interim President Delcy Rodríguez.
This marks the fifth seizure of sanctioned vessels since Maduro's ousting.
Analysts say 16 tankers have left Venezuelan waters since the operation began.
Trump stated plans to control Venezuela's oil wealth and to use profits for the Venezuelan people.

1 / 3