US Seizes Russian Oil Tanker in Atlantic, Raising Tensions with Moscow

The United States seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker, the Marinera, in the Atlantic Ocean after a two-week pursuit, a move that has the potential to escalate tensions with Moscow. US European Command announced on Wednesday that it boarded the Marinera over alleged sanctions violations. The seizure occurred in international waters between Iceland and the UK, according to reports.

The operation was executed by the US Coast Guard under a US federal court warrant. The incident underscores the escalating economic and political confrontation between the West and Russia, raising concerns about maritime security and international relations in the region. Moscow reportedly dispatched a submarine to safeguard the vessel.

The US European Command said it boarded the Marinera over alleged sanctions violations. The seizure raises questions about maritime law enforcement and the strategic implications for global energy security.