US forces seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera—previously Bella 1—on January 7, 2026, in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Scotland following a weeks-long pursuit. Sanctioned since 2024 for alleged Venezuelan and Iranian oil transport, the vessel was tracked by US authorities.
Operation Overview
The US Coast Guard cutter Munro coordinated the boarding with Navy SEALs, who encountered no resistance, aided by UK RAF surveillance near Russian naval units. A second tanker, Sophia, was seized the same day in the Caribbean under the US blockade targeting Venezuela's shadow fleet.
Russian Perspective
Russia's Transport Ministry condemned the action as a violation of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, asserting freedom of navigation on the high seas and that no state may use force against duly registered foreign vessels. A Russian submarine and warship were nearby during the operation, though no confrontation occurred. Moscow demands the crew's prompt return, labeling it piracy.
US Position
US authorities deem the ship effectively stateless despite its flag and pursue prosecutions for sanctions evasion. No violence was reported.
