The United States has seized two oil tankers, including one flying the Russian flag, in a move aimed at enforcing sanctions against Venezuela. The US military operation, which took place in the North Atlantic Ocean, has been condemned by Russia as piracy.
The Russian-flagged tanker, previously known as Bella 1 and later registered as Marine Era, was one of the two vessels seized by US authorities. The second tanker, MT Sofia, was operating in the Caribbean Sea without a flag.
According to the US military command, the tankers were seized for violating American sanctions against Venezuela. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the sanctions prohibit any oil shipments from Venezuela, regardless of the destination.
The US had previously imposed sanctions on Bella 1 in 2024, alleging that the tanker was involved in shipping restricted oil. The vessel had previously evaded capture by the US Coast Guard in the Caribbean and had been pursued for two weeks before being seized.
Russia has condemned the US action as piracy, with the Russian Foreign Ministry stating that the tanker was operating in international waters. The ministry has called for the US to ensure the safety of the Russian crew and their return to Russia.
White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt said that the US would enforce all sanctions and that the crew of the tankers were now subject to legal action. Leavitt stated that the Trump administration was in close contact with the interim government of Venezuela and that any decisions made by the Venezuelan government would be in line with US policy.
The White House spokesperson also stated that oil company executives would visit the White House this week, and that President Trump had the authority to use military force to protect oil workers if necessary. Leavitt also stated that the US would not comment on the timing of elections in Venezuela.
In other news, protests against high prices in Iran continued, with two security officials and 36 people killed in the past 11 days. The British government is set to announce the next mayor of London, with a Muslim candidate, Lily, in the running.
In the United Arab Emirates, a devastating road accident killed four children and a family member, while the UAE has implemented a new civil code, raising the age of majority to 18.
In other news, the British Defense Ministry stated that it had provided assistance to the US in seizing the tanker, following a US request.
