Russia Says Trump Approved Release of Two Crew After U.S. Seized Tanker Marinera

Overview

• Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the U.S. military seized the Russian‑flagged tanker Marinera in the Atlantic.
• Moscow stated that President Donald Trump decided to free two Russian crew members at Russia’s request.
• The ministry welcomed the decision and said it has begun practical work for the sailors’ early return.
• A day earlier, Russia condemned the seizure as a serious breach of international maritime law and an unlawful use of force.
• The claims were carried in a Kyodo News Moscow dispatch reprinted by Japanese outlets, and the U.S. side was not cited on the record in these articles.