In a high-seas operation, United States forces seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera (formerly known as Bella 1) in the North Atlantic on January 7, marking a significant escalation in enforcement of sanctions against Venezuela’s oil trade.
The vessel, part of a so-called “shadow fleet” used to evade Western sanctions, was intercepted after a multi-week pursuit that began near Venezuelan waters. US officials described the tanker as “stateless” due to its use of deceptive flagging practices, despite recently registering under the Russian flag.
Russian state media, including RT, reported that the 28-member crew includes three Indian nationals, two Russians, 17 Ukrainians, and six Georgians. The emphasis on Indian crew members in Russian and Indian media coverage has raised concerns about the welfare of the seafarers.
Moscow has strongly condemned the seizure, labelling it an act of “piracy” and a violation of international law under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Reports indicate Russian naval vessels were nearby during the operation but did not intervene.
The White House and US European Command stated the action was pursuant to a federal court warrant, targeting vessels involved in transporting sanctioned Venezuelan crude oil. The tanker was empty at the time of seizure and reportedly heading toward Russia.
Shadow fleets consist of aging vessels that frequently change flags, ownership, and names to circumvent sanctions on countries like Venezuela, Russia, and Iran. This incident is seen as a warning to operators evading restrictions.
The crew has been detained for questioning, with US authorities assuring humane treatment under maritime protocols.
Indian officials have not yet issued an official statement on the involvement of its nationals.
