US Seizes Russian-Flagged Tanker 'Marinera' in North Atlantic Over Venezuela Sanctions

US Forces Intercept Tanker in North Atlantic

The United States military successfully seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera, previously known as the Bella-1, in the North Atlantic Ocean on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The operation, which culminated a weeks-long pursuit, was carried out under a warrant issued by a US federal court for alleged violations of sanctions related to Venezuelan oil.

The seizure involved personnel from the US Coast Guard, with support from the US European Command, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of War. The tanker was tracked by the USCGC Munro, and surveillance aircraft, including P-8 Poseidon and AC-130J gunships, were deployed during the pursuit.

Sanctions Evasion and Pursuit Details

The Marinera is considered part of a 'shadow fleet' of vessels used to bypass international sanctions on energy exports. The tanker had been sanctioned by the US in 2024 for its alleged involvement in illicit oil transport linked to Iranian crude and other blacklisted entities, as well as for transporting Venezuelan crude.

The pursuit began in December when the US Coast Guard attempted to intercept the vessel, then named Bella-1, near Venezuela. The ship evaded the initial boarding attempt, turned off its Automatic Identification System, and sailed across the Atlantic. During this period, it re-registered under a Russian flag and was renamed Marinera, with its crew reportedly painting a Russian flag on its hull in an attempt to evade scrutiny.

International Reactions and Broader Context

The seizure has drawn strong reactions. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth affirmed the US stance, stating, 'The blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in FULL EFFECT – anywhere in the world.' White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the US's commitment to enforcing its sanctions policy.

In response, Russia's Transport Ministry condemned the seizure, asserting that 'freedom of navigation applies in waters on the high seas, and no state has the right to use force against vessels duly registered under the jurisdiction of other states.' Moscow reportedly deployed a submarine and other naval vessels to escort the tanker during the US pursuit. Britain also provided support to the US in its operation.

This event occurs amidst an intensified US pressure campaign against Venezuela, which included a 'total and complete blockade' of sanctioned oil tankers ordered by President Donald Trump in mid-December. The seizure also follows the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US forces. On the same day, the US Coast Guard also intercepted another Venezuela-linked tanker, the M Sophia, in the Caribbean Sea.