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20h ago

U.S. Seizes Sanctioned Tanker in North Atlantic After Pursuit

Moscow calls the boarding a breach of maritime law, warning of broader fallout.

Moscú desplegó un submarino y buques militares para proteger al petrolero Marinera, antes Bella 1, tras un intento de incautación por parte de Estados Unidos. (Gemini)
Esta imagen, tomada de un video proporcionado por el Departamento de Defensa de Estados Unidos, muestra al buque Munro de la Guardia Costera de Estados Unidos siguiendo al MV Bella 1 en el océano Atlántico el miércoles 7 de enero de 2026. (Departamento de Defensa a través de AP)
This image from video provided by the U.S. Department of Defense, shows U.S. forces boarding the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean Sea early Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026. (Department of Defense via AP)

Overview

  • U.S. European Command confirmed the Wednesday seizure of the merchant tanker Bella 1 for violations of U.S. sanctions.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard released video showing tactical teams securing the ship after a sustained shadowing operation by cutter Munro.
  • The interception occurred between Iceland and Scotland after a pursuit that began on December 21, with the vessel’s tanks reported empty.
  • During the crossing the ship was renamed Marinera and obtained a temporary Russian registration issued from Sochi, a move now central to the flag‑state jurisdiction dispute.
  • Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the action, demanded humane treatment and rapid repatriation for Russian crew members, and argued that high‑seas detentions require flag‑state consent.