Russia has issued a concerning warning of potential conflict after US forces captured the Marinera oil tanker. The operation, supported by RAF surveillance aircraft and the naval supply ship RFA Tideforce, took place in the Atlantic following a US request.
The vessel, previously named Bella 1 and linked to Venezuela, was intercepted by US forces as it traveled towards Iceland and Scotland, despite being monitored by Russian forces. In response, Russian lawmaker Alexei Zhuravlev urged President Vladimir Putin to take aggressive action, referring to the seizure as an act of piracy.
Zhuravlev emphasized that the tanker, sailing under the Russian flag, symbolized an infringement on Russian territory, calling for a swift and decisive response, including the potential use of nuclear weapons. He criticized the US for its perceived impunity following previous operations.
Another Russian MP, Lt-Gen Andrey Gurulev, suggested imposing sanctions on ships heading to Black Sea ports and targeting Western missile production facilities. He proposed using nuclear-capable missile systems against specific companies, highlighting the need for a strong stance against perceived threats.
Meanwhile, former Kremlin president Dmitry Medvedev cautioned the US administration against provoking Russia, emphasizing the need for respectful international relations. In a parliamentary briefing, Defence Secretary John Healey justified the seizure of the Marinera due to its stateless status and involvement in violating sanctions on Iran.
Healey revealed that the vessel had been transporting Iranian crude oil over several years, with the profits allegedly supporting terrorism. He noted the ship’s attempt to evade detection by changing its name and adopting the Russian flag.
Despite the UK’s legal justification for the seizure, the Russian foreign ministry argued that it violated international maritime laws. Tensions escalated as Kremlin advisors warned of potential repercussions on US-Russia relations if such actions persisted.