US attempts to seize Venezuela-linked tanker after two-week chase
The United States is attempting to seize an oil tanker linked to Venezuela after more than two weeks of pursuit across the Atlantic Ocean. Two US officials told Reuters on condition of anonymity.
The vessel in question is the former Bella 1. According to the sources, the tanker managed to break through the naval blockade of sanctioned vessels imposed by Washington and refused to allow representatives of the US Coast Guard on board. After that, it changed its name to Marinera and was re-registered under the Russian flag, which significantly complicated the legal aspect of the transaction.
The seizure operation is being conducted by the US Coast Guard with the support of the US military. According to officials, Russian warships, including a submarine, were also in the area, raising the risk of further escalation between Washington and Moscow.
This tanker is the third vessel that the US has targeted as part of the pressure campaign by President Donald Trump's administration against Venezuela. At the same time, US forces intercepted another Venezuelan-linked tanker in Latin American waters. Thus, the United States continues to actively apply a naval blockade against vessels suspected of transporting sanctioned oil.
American officials acknowledge that such actions could increase tensions not only with Caracas, but also with Russia, which they say is increasingly involved in the transportation of sanctioned energy.
