Tension rises in North Sea as US seizes Russian oil tanker linked to Venezuela

New Delhi: The United States has seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker, Marinera, in the North Sea. The US Navy had reportedly been monitoring the vessel for more than two weeks. 

Why did the crisis take place?

This development came to light when Moscow attempted to deploy naval forces to protect the ship. Despite this, the US seized the oil tanker. According to a New York Times report, when the US Coast Guard seized the Marinera, no other Russian vessels were present in the vicinity. This prevented a confrontation between American and Russian forces.

Why did the US seize a Russian tanker?

Russia's state broadcaster RT shared photos showing a helicopter approaching the Russian tanker. Reuters, citing two US officials, reported that US forces were attempting to board the vessel.

The Russian oil tanker is named Bella 1. The US imposed sanctions on this tanker in 2024.  Later, the tanker's name was changed to Marinera. This Russian tanker was en route from Iran to Venezuela.

Why did the Russian tanker change its route?

The Russian oil tanker is named Bella 1. The US imposed sanctions on this tanker in 2024. Later, its name was changed to Marinera. This Russian tanker was en route from Iran to Venezuela.
Originally named Bella 1, this tanker was sanctioned by the US in 2024.  Its name was later changed to Marinera. It was traveling from Iran to Venezuela.

What action has the US taken?

According to reports, the US has imposed various restrictions on oil tankers near Venezuelan territorial waters. In an attempt to evade this US blockade, the tanker changed its course and turned back towards the Atlantic Ocean.

This is not the first time the US military has attempted to intercept this tanker. According to media reports, in December 2025, the crew thwarted an attempt to board a US military ship near Venezuela.