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US Military Seizes Oil Ships Amid Venezuelan Sanctions: What You Need to Know

KVIA•Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 1:28 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Since December, the US Coast Guard and military have seized five oil ships linked to Venezuelan oil, enforcing sanctions that began during Trump's presidency. The latest ship, the Olina, will be returned to Venezuela as part of a deal with the interim government. The seizures are part of a broader strategy to block sanctioned vessels and have included elite Coast Guard and Navy personnel. The Coast Guard faces challenges in managing these operations due to limited resources, despite receiving a significant funding boost this year. The seized ships may eventually be auctioned, with proceeds going to the Treasury Department.

Key Details: • Five oil ships have been seized since December, with the latest being the Olina. • The Olina will return to Venezuela to offload oil as part of a negotiation. • Seizures involve elite Coast Guard and Navy personnel and can take several days. • The Coast Guard received $25 billion in funding to support these operations. • Proceeds from any auction of the seized ships will go to the Treasury Department.

coast-guard sanctions venezuela oil shipping

People & Organizations

Department of Homeland SecurityDonald TrumpDepartment of JusticeNicolás MaduroUS Coast GuardHoustonPentagonGulf CoastAaron Roth

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