US Seizes Sanctioned Tanker of Russian Shadow Fleet Olina
The US Coast Guard seized the tanker Olina in the Caribbean near Trinidad on January 9, marking the fifth such interception of vessels in recent weeks as part of an operation to control the export of Venezuelan oil.
The vessel, formerly known as the Minerva M, is under sanctions for transporting Russian oil. According to sources, the Olina had previously sailed from Venezuela and returned to the region when the US launched a seizure operation on January 9.
Sanctions Enforcement
The US Coast Guard’s action follows two previous operations that resulted in the detention of sanctioned tankers Bella I and Sophia. Both vessels were last docked in or headed to Venezuela, highlighting the US government’s efforts to enforce sanctions against countries involved in circumventing international restrictions.
According to GUR data, during the period of the G7+ oil embargo, the Olina was involved in the export of Russian oil/oil products from Russian ports in the Baltic, Black Seas, and the Pacific region, mainly to China, India, and Turkey. The US Coast Guard’s seizure of the tanker is a significant step in disrupting these illegal activities.
Monitoring Vessels
The US military has boarded the Olina and continues to monitor other vessels that have attempted to circumvent the US blockade of sanctioned tankers heading to and from Venezuela. This operation demonstrates the US government’s commitment to enforcing sanctions and preventing the illegal export of oil.
As part of its efforts, the US Coast Guard is working closely with international partners to identify and intercept vessels involved in these activities. The seizure of the Olina tanker sends a strong message that the US will not tolerate attempts to circumvent sanctions and undermine international efforts to address global energy security concerns.
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