U.S. forces have successfully seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker, known as the Bella-1 and later renamed Marinera. The operation took place in the North Atlantic on Wednesday, following a prolonged chase that lasted two weeks. The vessel was originally on route to Venezuela but altered its path to evade U.S. authorities.
Details of the Seizure
The seizure is part of a broader military pressure campaign aimed at enforcing sanctions against Venezuela. U.S. European Command confirmed the vessel’s identity and noted that it had previously been listed on sanctions lists. Communications with the tanker ceased after U.S. forces boarded it.
- Date of Seizure: Wednesday
- Location: North Atlantic, between Iceland and Britain
- Previous Names: Bella-1, Marinera
- Original Destination: Venezuela
International Response
The Russian Ministry of Transport responded to the seizure, stating that the tanker had been granted temporary permission to sail under the Russian flag as of December 24, 2025. They emphasized that international law prohibits the use of force against legally registered vessels. However, they did not address U.S. claims that the vessel was involved in circumventing sanctions.
Background on the Vessel
The Bella-1, known for its involvement in transporting oil from sanctioned nations, had previously turned off its transponders while at sea. It had also attempted to disguise itself by re-flagging as Russian. Shipping experts speculate that it may have been heading toward a Russian port in the Arctic.
Ongoing Operations and Related Developments
This seizure is part of a larger initiative that recently saw another tanker, the Sophia, intercepted in the Caribbean. U.S. Southern Command identified the Sophia as a stateless vessel engaged in illicit activities. Both tankers were reportedly either last docked in Venezuela or were en route there.
- Second Tanker: Sophia
- Status: Intercepted in the Caribbean Sea
Officials, including U.K. Defence Secretary John Healey, criticized the vessel’s activities, citing its role in a “Russian-Iranian axis of sanctions evasion.” This operation demonstrates the U.S. commitment to combating shipping activities that pose threats to international security.
