US Seizes Russian-Flagged Oil Tanker in North Atlantic | Jan 7, 2026

On January 7, 2026, U.S. authorities seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker, Marinara (formerly Bella 1), in the North Atlantic after a weeks-long pursuit. According to U.S. officials, the tanker was allegedly involved in transporting oil linked to Venezuela and Iran, in violation of U.S. sanctions. Authorities also stated that the vessel was part of a so-called “shadow fleet”, a network of tankers accused of evading sanctions through tactics such as reflagging, name changes, and concealment of ownership. The operation was carried out under a U.S. federal court warrant, with U.S. forces boarding the vessel at sea. Reports indicate that the multinational crew onboard included: 3 Indian seafarers 2 Russian nationals 17 Ukrainian nationals 6 Georgian nationals Russia has condemned the seizure, calling it illegal and a violation of international maritime law. This incident highlights the growing enforcement actions against sanctions-evasion and illicit oil transport at sea.