According to a U.S. official, the "Olina" sailed from Venezuela last week fully loaded with oil.
After declaring that he is not bound by International Law, U.S. President Donald Trump continues to act as he sees fit. The United States has proceeded with the seizure of a fifth tanker within just a few days as part of sanctions targeting illegal oil shipments. The tanker "Olina", located in the Caribbean Sea near the islands of Trinidad and Tobago, is allegedly linked to the "shadow fleet" of vessels serving Russia, Venezuela, and Iran, further fueling fears of an escalating international crisis.
The seizure is part of President Trump's broader strategy to tighten control over global oil flows, sending a clear message to both Moscow and Caracas. However, this move may trigger further tensions between the U.S. and Russia, coming just days after American forces seized another vessel that claimed Russian protection and was being escorted by the Russian Navy.
A fleet in flight after Maduro's capture
According to a U.S. official, the "Olina" sailed from Venezuela last week fully loaded with oil. It was reportedly part of a small flotilla of ships that departed the country shortly after the arrest of Nicolás Maduro on Saturday, January 3, 2026. It is noted that the U.S. had imposed sanctions on the Olina in January 2025, when it was named "Minerva M," due to its alleged membership in a "shadow fleet" of tankers linked to illicit oil transfers and violations of international sanctions against Venezuela and other states.
A clear warning to Moscow, Beijing, and Tehran
The seizures are being utilized by the Trump administration to exert pressure on the interim government of Venezuela and to dismantle the so-called "Russian shadow fleet," which reportedly includes more than 1,000 vessels. Russia, Iran, and Venezuela have assembled a fleet of aging tankers to transport oil barrels worldwide despite existing blockades.
These tanker seizures also aim to send a definitive message to Russia, China, and Iran that they should not align with Caracas or defy U.S. sanctions. U.S. officials stated they have conveyed to Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, that her government must now align with Washington and distance itself from America’s adversaries.
No commitment to International Law
Shocking statements made to the New York Times also reveal the U.S. President’s stance that he is not bound by International Law, citing his own moral compass instead. Specifically, when asked if he perceives any limit to his actions abroad, Donald Trump replied: "Yes, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It is the only thing that can stop me."
"I don't need International Law," he told the New York Times. "I don't want to hurt anyone," the U.S. President assured. When pressed on whether he believes the United States should adhere to international law, he said "yes," but added: "It depends on your definition of International Law."
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