The U.S. Department of Defense and Homeland Security have seized the "dark fleet" tanker M/T Sophia in the Caribbean Sea during Operation Southern Spear. This professional news report details the interception of the stateless vessel involved in illicit trade and the U.S. commitment to restoring maritime stability and regional security in the Western Hemisphere.

Venezuela has begun deploying naval escorts for oil field vessels amid escalating tensions with the United States over sanctions and maritime restrictions. The move follows the seizure of a sanctioned tanker and signals Caracas’ effort to protect energy exports and economic interests.