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The US seizes Russian oil tanker in the Atlantic as part of a broader enforcement action targeting vessels linked to sanctioned oil trade. American officials say the tanker played a role in moving oil for Venezuela and other restricted states.
According to US authorities, the Russian oil tanker forms part of a shadow fleet used to bypass international sanctions. Tracking data shows the vessel operating near Iceland’s exclusive economic zone while under close surveillance by US Coast Guard assets.
US Seizes Russian Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela
Officials say the tanker previously attempted to reach Venezuela but carried no cargo at the time of pursuit. Despite this, the ship remains under US sanctions imposed in 2024 over alleged ties to Iran and Hezbollah.
The US seizes Russian oil tanker following weeks of monitoring. Last month, the vessel avoided an attempted boarding near Venezuelan waters. Soon after, it changed its registration to Russia, renamed itself, and displayed a Russian flag.
You can read more on related enforcement actions in our coverage of US sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector.
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Russia Reacts to Oil Tanker Pursuit
Russia responded by deploying naval assets to escort the tanker. Moscow described the US operation as excessive and expressed concern over what it called disproportionate military attention toward a civilian vessel.
Russian officials insisted the ship operated legally and far from US territorial waters. However, US authorities maintain that sanctions enforcement applies regardless of location.
For background, see international reporting on shadow fleet oil tankers and sanctions evasion.
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Growing Tensions Over Oil Sanctions
The attempt to seize the Russian oil tanker reflects a wider US crackdown on oil shipments tied to Venezuela. Recent actions follow political changes in Caracas and renewed US efforts to control illicit energy trade routes.
Analysts say the situation could heighten tensions between Washington and Moscow while raising questions about maritime law and sanctions enforcement.
Attribution
Information compiled from international wire services, maritime tracking data, and official statements from US and Russian authorities.
