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US confiscates Russian oil tanker linked to Venezuela
The United States has seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Bella-1 after a weeks-long pursuit across the Atlantic Ocean.
US European Command confirmed the seizure on Wednesday via an X post, stating that the tanker violated US sanctions.
Bella-1 was sanctioned in 2024 for being part of a “shadow fleet” of vessels involved in transporting illicit oil, including shipments linked to Venezuela.
But it was not until last month that the US began a cat-and-mouse game with the vessel.
They had tried to seize the tanker last month when it was near Venezuela, but missed after the ship turned around and fled.
During the pursuit, a Russian flag later appeared painted on the ship’s hull with the crew claiming it was sailing under Russian protection.
Shortly thereafter, the vessel appeared on Russia’s official register of ships under a new name — the Marinera.
Russia then filed a formal diplomatic request last month demanding that the US stop pursuing the vessel.
The seizure is the latest action in US President Donald Trump’s pressure campaign against Venezuela.
Earlier, the US demanded that Venezuela sever economic ties with Russia, China, Cuba and Iran, and partner America exclusively on oil production.
With 80,000 barrels as of 2024, Russia holds the world’s seventh largest oil reserves.
By claiming Russian status, the legalities and implication of the US seizing Bella-1 could become more complicated.
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