US seizes Russian-flagged tanker in high-stakes Atlantic operation

Second vessel also said to be violating sanctions intercepted in Caribbean

- Pjotr Sauer

The US seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the Atlantic Ocean yesterday in a high-stakes operation that could risk confrontation with the Kremlin, after Moscow reportedly dispatched a submarine to safeguard the vessel.

US European Command said that it had boarded the Marinera over alleged sanctions violations, bringing to an end a dramatic two-week pursuit that began in the Caribbean and concluded in the Atlantic.

The Russian state broadcaster, RT, had earlier published two grainy photographs showing a helicopter approaching the Marinera tanker, saying an operation was under way.

The seizure - the first known US military seizure of a Russian-flagged vessel in recent history - is the latest demonstration of brazen US military power and reach.

The US Coast Guard said yesterday it had separately intercepted another dark-fleet tanker that was under sanctions, the M Sophia, in a pre-dawn operation in the Caribbean.

Commenting on the twin operations, the White House signalled that it would continue to seize Venezuela-linked oil vessels after Donald Trump last month imposed what he described as a "complete blockade" on ships transporting oil for Caracas.

"The US will enforce all sanctions," the White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, told reporters.

Asked whether the seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the Atlantic risked escalating tensions with Russia, Leavitt did not respond directly, adding that the vessel's crew could be transferred to the US for prosecution "if necessary". The Russian foreign ministry has demanded the US ensure the humane and dignified treatment of Russian citizens onboard the Marinera and guarantee their swift return to Russia.