United States forces seized a Venezuela-linked oil tanker that was sailing under a Russian flag in the North Atlantic. The seizure occurred following a prolonged pursuit as part of actions to enforce sanctions imposed on Venezuela’s energy sector.
The vessel, originally known as the Bella 1, had been sanctioned in 2024 by the United States due to its alleged involvement in illicit transport operations. It was now captured after several weeks of tracking and evading the American maritime blockade.
READ MORE: Russia and Ukraine agree to negotiate after meeting in Florida
The Operation Against the Oil Tanker
According to the U.S. European Command, the vessel was seized in the North Atlantic under an order issued by a U.S. federal court for violating sanctions against Venezuela. The operation was coordinated by the U.S. Coast Guard and armed forces with support from other government departments, including Justice and Homeland Security.
The tanker, which had previously avoided Coast Guard boarding, was now sailing under a Russian flag following a name and registry change that attempted to hinder its tracking by authorities.
Why Was the Tanker Seized?
The seizure is part of a series of measures by Washington to block the export of Venezuelan oil that it considers sanctioned or illicit. This action comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
U.S. officials have defended these actions as part of an effort to enforce sanctions and protect hemispheric stability. They insist that vessels violating international regulations will be pursued and detained wherever they are found.
READ MORE: Donald Trump captures Nicolás Maduro with massive attack in Venezuela
Diplomatic Repercussions
The seizure of a Russian-flagged vessel with ties to Venezuela could increase international tensions. This is one of the first operations in which the U.S. has acted against a ship under another jurisdiction.
Experts and observers have noted that the measure has implications for the dynamics between the United States, Russia, and other countries involved in the global oil trade.
So far, there have been no official statements from Russian or Venezuelan authorities regarding this incident, although in previous situations they have strongly criticized U.S. actions in the maritime and energy domains.
