US authorities have taken control of the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera, despite efforts by Vladimir Putin to protect the vessel. An American official informed NBC News that the tanker is now in US custody, with US law enforcement officials, led by Homeland Security, currently on board.
The US European Command announced that the US Department of Justice and Homeland Security have seized the M/V Bella 1 for violating US sanctions. The vessel was apprehended in the North Atlantic following a warrant issued by a US federal court, after being tracked by USCGC Munro.
Reports suggest that Donald Trump has successfully seized the tanker, which is now reportedly en route to the UK. Downing Street declined to comment on these speculations or on the use of British military bases by third parties.
President Trump had previously ordered a “blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, a move criticized by the Maduro government as “theft.” The Marinera, flying the Russian flag, was traveling between Scotland and Iceland, having evaded interception near Venezuela.
This recent operation to board the Marinera by US forces comes after an earlier attempt in the Caribbean last month. The US Coast Guard had a warrant to seize the vessel for allegedly violating sanctions and transporting Iranian oil.
A Russian news outlet reported that American military personnel were being landed on the Venezuelan-linked oil tanker Marinera by helicopter, with a Russian submarine escorting the vessel during the operation.
Surveillance aircraft such as P-8 Poseidon and an AC-130J bomber were involved in the operation. Tracking data indicated that the Marinera altered its course suddenly, heading south at reduced speed.
The tanker, previously named Bella 1 and currently empty, typically carries Venezuelan crude oil. It was observed sailing northeast between Iceland and the UK. Flight tracking websites showed US special operations aircraft landing in Scotland before proceeding north towards Iceland. Additionally, RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint surveillance planes were seen monitoring the tanker’s path.
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