Key insights
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1
US officials framed the seizure as sanctions enforcement beyond Venezuelan waters: Pete Hegseth wrote that the blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in full effect anywhere in the world.
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2
Russia’s Foreign Ministry disputed the proportionality of the pursuit: The ministry said it was monitoring the situation, called the pursuit disproportionate, and said the vessel was in international waters acting according to international maritime law.
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3
US officials linked the tanker to a broader network of sanctioned oil transport: American officials said the Marinera was part of a shadow fleet carrying oil for Venezuela, Russia, and Iran in violation of US sanctions.
Takeaways
US forces seized the Marinera and reported a second seizure of the M Sophia as part of enforcement actions against tankers carrying sanctioned Venezuelan oil.
Topics
World & Politics Policy & Regulation International Affairs Climate & Environment Energy Security & Defense