Moscow Demands US Halt Actions Against Marinera Tanker

The Russian Foreign Ministry has called on Washington to immediately stop what it described as illegal actions against the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera and to adhere to international maritime law.

"We call on Washington to resume compliance with the fundamental norms and principles of international maritime navigation and immediately cease its illegal actions against the Marinera and other vessels engaged in law-abiding activities on the high seas," the ministry said, The Caspian Post reports, citing TASS.

"We reiterate our demand that the US ensure humane and dignified treatment of the Russian citizens comprising the tanker’s crew, strictly observe their rights and interests, and make no obstacles to their prompt return to their homeland," it added.

On Wednesday, the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) announced the seizure of the Russian oil tanker Marinera in the Atlantic.

In a statement on X, EUCOM said: “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.”