A Russian‑flagged oil tanker sailing from Venezuela has been seized by U.S. forces following a dramatic two‑week chase across the Atlantic Ocean, according to American officials. The operation unfolded amid reports of a Russian military presence in the wider area, adding a geopolitical edge to an already tense maritime confrontation.
A High‑Stakes Operation at Sea
The tanker, now identified as Marinera (IMO 9230880), was taken under American control after what officials described as a “two‑week effort” involving both the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. armed forces. A U.S. official speaking to NBC confirmed that the vessel was intercepted following a coordinated operation that reportedly included aerial surveillance and attempted boardings.
Russian media circulated images appearing to show helicopters approaching the ship, while U.S. officials noted that Russian naval vessels — including a submarine — were present in the broader region when the seizure began.
A Vessel With a Complicated History
Originally named Bella‑1, the tanker was later renamed Marinera and began sailing under the Russian flag. According to Reuters, the vessel had previously evaded U.S. attempts to board it and had slipped through what American authorities described as a “blockade” of sanctioned tankers linked to Venezuela.
The ship is considered a significant target in Washington’s ongoing campaign to pressure maritime networks supporting Venezuela’s oil sector, which remains under heavy U.S. sanctions.
Moscow Responds: ‘The Ship Was in International Waters’
Before the seizure, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the tanker was operating legally in international waters and in full compliance with maritime law. The ministry urged Western nations — including the United States — to respect the vessel’s right to freedom of navigation.
Russian state broadcaster RT reported that Moscow emphasized the ship’s Russian flag status and warned against interference.
Geopolitical Tensions Rise
The presence of Russian military vessels in the vicinity during the U.S. operation has raised concerns about potential escalation. Analysts note that the incident could add strain to already fragile U.S.–Russia relations, particularly given the involvement of a Russian submarine in the surrounding waters.
Reuters reported that the situation is being closely monitored in Washington, where officials view the tanker’s capture as both a strategic and symbolic development in the broader contest over Venezuela’s oil exports.
Another Tanker Intercepted
In a separate incident, the U.S. Coast Guard intercepted another Venezuela‑linked tanker in Latin American waters, U.S. officials told Reuters. Details of that operation have not yet been fully disclosed.
