WASHINGTON: The US Navy and Coast Guard have seized a Russian tanker that had attempted to evade a partial US blockade of Venezuela, according to international news agencies.
The tanker, which had been under pursuit for several weeks, was previously protected by a Russian submarine and a warship during its voyage. The US authorities said the vessel is part of a “shadow fleet” transporting crude oil for countries facing American sanctions, including Venezuela, Russia, and Iran.
The @TheJusticeDept & @DHSgov, in coordination with the @DeptofWar today announced the seizure of
the M/V Bella 1 for violations of U.S. sanctions. The vessel was seized in the North Atlantic pursuant to a warrant issued by a U.S. federal court after being tracked by USCGC Munro. pic.twitter.com/bm5KcCK30X— U.S. European Command (@US_EUCOM) January 7, 2026
Earlier reports by the Wall Street Journal indicated that Russia dispatched a submarine and additional naval vessels to protect the tanker. CBS News confirmed the deployment, citing two US officials.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the US pursuit, stating that the tanker, traveling under the Russian flag, was far from US shores and had been receiving “unusual attention” from American and NATO forces.
Following the US Coast Guard chase, the tanker transferred its registration to Russia, changed its name from Bella 1 to Marinera, and the crew painted the Russian flag on the vessel last month.
The incident highlights rising tensions over oil shipments from sanctioned nations and underscores the ongoing strategic maneuvering in the Caribbean and Atlantic waters.
