U.S. forces boarded an oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea early Friday, according to a statement from the U.S. military's Southern Command, marking the fifth such operation in recent days as part of the Trump administration's ongoing effort to control Venezuela's oil exports. The announcement came hours after President Trump lauded cooperation from what he termed Venezuela's new leaders, citing the release of several political prisoners as a positive sign.

President Trump indicated that further U.S. attacks against Venezuela would not be necessary, but affirmed that American warships would remain stationed off the country's coast. In a post on Truth Social early Friday morning, Mr. Trump stated he had canceled a previously anticipated "second Wave of Attacks" against Venezuela.

Seven political prisoners were released on Thursday, a move perceived as a modest gesture following the U.S.-backed ouster of President Nicolás Maduro. Mr. Trump described the releases as "very important," suggesting they demonstrated the interim government's effective collaboration with his administration.

The Trump administration's actions are rooted in its long-standing policy of attempting to exert control over Venezuela's oil resources, a key source of revenue for the country. This policy has involved sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and, more recently, direct military intervention in the form of boarding and seizing oil tankers. The U.S. government has argued that these measures are necessary to prevent the Maduro regime from using oil revenue to maintain its grip on power and to support what it describes as illicit activities.

Critics of the administration's approach contend that such actions are a violation of international law and an infringement on Venezuela's sovereignty. They argue that the sanctions and military interventions are exacerbating the country's economic crisis and causing further hardship for the Venezuelan people. Some international observers have also expressed concern that the U.S. actions could escalate tensions in the region and potentially lead to a wider conflict.

The current status of the boarded tanker and its crew remains unclear. The U.S. Southern Command has not yet released details regarding the tanker's origin, destination, or cargo. Further announcements are expected in the coming days as the situation unfolds. The long-term implications of these actions on U.S.-Venezuela relations and the stability of the region remain to be seen.