U.S. military forces seized a fifth oil tanker in recent weeks as part of an ongoing effort to target vessels allegedly violating sanctions related to Venezuela. The pre-dawn operation on Friday targeted the oil tanker Olina in the Caribbean Sea near Trinidad, according to U.S. Southern Command.

U.S. Marines and Navy sailors carried out the assault, launching from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. Video footage released by officials shows U.S. forces landing on the ship's deck. Southern Command declared that the action demonstrated that there is "no safe haven for criminals."

The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean in recent months, citing concerns about illicit activities. These interdictions are separate from previous U.S. operations that began in the fall, targeting suspected drug boats off the coast of Venezuela.

The seizures are part of a broader U.S. strategy to pressure the Venezuelan government through economic sanctions. These sanctions aim to limit the country's oil revenue, a primary source of income for the Venezuelan government. The U.S. government contends that these measures are necessary to promote democracy and human rights in Venezuela.

The Venezuelan government has condemned the U.S. actions, calling them acts of piracy and violations of international law. Critics of the U.S. policy argue that the sanctions are harming the Venezuelan people and exacerbating the country's economic crisis. They advocate for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian assistance.

The current status of the Olina and its crew is unclear. U.S. authorities have not yet announced specific charges or legal proceedings related to the seizure. Further details are expected to be released as the situation develops.