North Atlantic Ocean
News Desk | World
The United States launched an operation Wednesday to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, according to two U.S. officials who spoke to NBC News. The vessel, previously known as Bella 1 and recently renamed Marinera, had been pursued for weeks after operating near Venezuela as part of its sanctioned oil trade. U.S. authorities confirmed the ship has been secured following a judicial seizure order targeting vessels evading sanctions.
The tanker, listed under U.S. sanctions since June 2024, switched to a Russian flag after earlier pursuits by the U.S. Coast Guard off Venezuela’s coast last month. Officials described it as a “sanctioned dark fleet vessel involved in Venezuela’s unlawful sanctions evasion,” noting it had operated under a false flag. This marks at least the third such seizure, with two other oil tankers confiscated near Venezuela in recent weeks amid efforts to enforce a blockade announced by President Trump.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the action, stating the Marinera was in international waters over 4,000 kilometers from U.S. shores and compliant with maritime regulations. Kremlin officials called the U.S. scrutiny “disproportionate,” highlighting tensions with Moscow, a key ally of Venezuela’s Maduro regime. Russian state media RT aired footage claiming a “hijacking attempt” in foggy conditions, with U.S. and NATO forces shadowing the vessel.
The operation underscores the Trump administration’s strategy to tap Venezuela’s oil reserves, estimated at 30 to 50 million barrels for potential U.S. transfer, amid friction with Russia and China. At least three other sanctioned tankers near Venezuela recently adopted Russian flags, including the Malak, now Inteza, and others previously under Comoros and Guyana registries. Ship-tracking data placed the Marinera off Scotland’s western coast as of January 5.
U.S. officials have not detailed next steps for the crew or cargo.
Related
Legal grounds for the US seizure of the tanker?
The US seized the tanker under a federal court warrant for alleged violations of US sanctions targeting illicit Venezuelan oil shipments.
Which US agencies led the operation and who spoke on record?
The operation was led by the US Coast Guard with support from US European Command, DHS and Department of Justice, and was publicly referenced by officials including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
What cargo and ownership records exist for the Marinera formerly Bella 1?
The tanker, formerly Bella 1, had been sanctioned for transporting Iranian and Venezuelan oil and changed flag/ownership to Russian registry to evade capture, though it was reportedly empty at interception.
How has the Russian government responded so far to the seizure?
Russia condemned the US actions as unlawful, dispatched naval escort assets and lodged diplomatic protests to halt the pursuit.
What sanctions apply to vessels involved in Venezuela oil export?
The US has imposed sanctions on multiple tankers and entities in the so-called shadow fleet transporting Venezuelan crude to enforce sanctions and disrupt sanctioned oil exports.
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Hannah Price is a digital journalist who covers breaking news, global events, and trending stories with accuracy and speed. She has previously contributed to several online magazines and has built a reputation for verifying facts before publishing. Hannah believes in responsible reporting and aims to present stories in a way that readers can trust.
