SOUTHCOM reports tanker seizure

According to an official statement from U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), forces from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford seized the Russian motor tanker Olina in the Caribbean Sea. SOUTHCOM representatives stated that 'there is no safe haven for criminals,' and the operation successfully suppressed an attempt at illegal activity. U.S. military forces, including the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, and USS Fort Lauderdale, participated in supporting the Southern Spear mission.

The statement emphasized that the operation was conducted without incident and in strict accordance with international norms. The command called for focused efforts on ensuring security in the Western Hemisphere and restoring regional presence.

Context

Near the Caribbean Sea, U.S. Southern Command regularly conducts operations to ensure security and prevent violations of maritime law.