Russia Accuses U.S. of ‘Gross Violation’ of Maritime Law in High-Seas Tanker Seizure
What Happened?
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the U.S. seizure of the oil tanker Marinera in the North Atlantic Ocean, calling Washington’s actions a “gross violation” of international maritime law and freedom of navigation.
The tanker was pursued and forcibly boarded by U.S. forces in international waters as part of wider enforcement against vessels allegedly carrying sanctioned oil tied to Venezuela and other sanctioned sources.
Russia’s Official Position?
Using force on the high seas against a civilian vessel, contrary to the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Treating U.S. sanctions legislation as a legal basis for seizure — which Russia calls unfounded and illegitimate.