Reports indicate that Russia has dispatched a submarine and other vessels to escort an oil tanker that is currently being pursued by US forces across the Atlantic.
The tanker, located between Iceland and the British Isles, faces accusations of violating US sanctions by transporting Iranian oil.
Historically, it has carried Venezuelan crude oil but is reported to be empty at this time.
Previously known as Bella 1, the vessel has been renamed Marinera and has reportedly changed its flag from Guyanese to Russian.
Last month, President Donald Trump announced a “blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers entering and exiting Venezuela, a move the Venezuelan government has labeled as “theft.”
Two US officials have confirmed to reporters that Russia has indeed sent a submarine and other naval assets to escort the tanker.
The US Coast Guard attempted to board the vessel last month in the Caribbean when it was thought to be heading towards Venezuela, armed with a warrant to seize it for alleged sanctions violations.
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Since then, the ship has altered its course significantly towards Europe, coinciding with the arrival of approximately 10 US military transport aircraft and helicopters.
Russia has expressed that it is “monitoring with concern” the situation surrounding the tanker.
“Our vessel is currently navigating in the international waters of the North Atlantic under the flag of the Russian Federation and in full compliance with international maritime law,” stated the Russian foreign ministry.
“For reasons that remain unclear, the Russian ship is receiving heightened and evidently disproportionate attention from US and NATO military forces, despite its peaceful status,” they added.
Earlier, two US officials informed reporters that American forces were preparing to board the ship, indicating a preference to seize it rather than sink it.
