On 07JAN2026, Russia confirmed the oil tanker Marinera (formerly known as M/V Bella-1) was taken by U.S. forces somewhere in the North Atlantic. The oil tanker had been sailing under a Russia permit since 24DEC2025, Russian officials say it was a temporary permit.  U.S. War Department video showing U.S. Coast Guard cutter Munro shadowing Marinera (Bella) before its capture:

On 07JAN2026, the M/T Sophia oil tanker was captured somewhere on the Caribbean Sea. The M/T Sophia was reportedly hauling oil to China from Venezuela. Operation Southern Spear video via U.S. Southern Command, I added the pirate music:

Venezuela: It’s always been about oil, ever since Venezuela nationalized its oil industry in the 1970s.

Operation Absolute Resolve: Trump presser