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

The United States Coast Guard seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker, the Marinera, in the Atlantic Ocean after a two-week pursuit, US European Command announced Wednesday. The seizure, executed under a US federal court warrant, occurred in international waters between Iceland and the UK, according to multiple news sources. The US claimed the action was due to alleged sanctions violations, a move that has escalated geopolitical tensions with Moscow, who reportedly deployed a submarine to the area.

The high-stakes operation raises concerns about maritime law enforcement, global energy security, and the potential for further confrontation between the US and Russia. The boarding of the Marinera by the US Coast Guard brings to an end a dramatic two-week pursuit, according to US European Command.

The seizure underscores the escalating economic and political confrontation between the West and Russia, raising concerns about maritime security and international relations in the region. The incident has prompted potential backlash from Moscow, given the reported deployment of a submarine to protect the vessel.