US Seizes Russian Oil Tanker: What It Means for International Maritime Law
Tensions Rise Over Seized Oil Tanker
In a recent development, three Indian nationals were reported to be part of the crew aboard the Russian oil tanker, Marinera, which was seized by the United States. This incident has prompted Moscow to urge Washington to adhere to international maritime laws and to denounce what it describes as 'neo-colonialist' actions.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the Marinera, previously known as Bella 1, was taken by the US Coast Guard in the North Atlantic. The ministry emphasized that it had previously communicated details regarding the tanker to the US authorities.
According to reports, the crew of the Marinera includes 17 Ukrainians, six Georgians, three Indians, and two Russians. The Russian government has called on the US to respect international maritime norms and to halt its illegal actions against the tanker and other vessels operating lawfully on the high seas.
Moscow has dismissed US claims regarding its sanctions legislation as baseless. The Foreign Ministry criticized statements from US officials suggesting that the seizure of the Marinera is part of a broader strategy to exert control over Venezuela's natural resources, labeling such claims as cynical.
The ministry reiterated that unilateral sanctions imposed by the US and other Western nations are illegitimate and cannot justify the seizure of vessels in international waters.
In its statement, Russia demanded that the US ensure the humane treatment of the crew members and respect their rights, urging for their swift return to Russia. The ministry also expressed serious concerns regarding the potential use of military force by the US against the tanker.
The Marinera had reportedly received temporary permission to operate under the Russian flag as of December 24 and was navigating international waters en route to a Russian port when it was intercepted.
The Russian government asserted that it had provided the US with reliable information about the ship's civilian status and Russian origin. It also lodged an official protest against the US Coast Guard's pursuit of the Marinera, demanding an end to these actions and the withdrawal of unlawful demands placed on the ship's captain.
The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the boarding of a civilian vessel by US military personnel as a serious violation of international maritime law and the principles of freedom of navigation.