Tensions escalate over Venezuela, Russia sends submarine to protect oil tanker from US seizure
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): Tensions surrounding Venezuela have intensified after Russia sent a submarine and additional naval assets to escort an oil tanker near the Venezuelan coast. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the move has emerged as a fresh point of friction in US-Russia relations.
The report states that Russia deployed naval support to protect an ageing oil tanker stranded near Venezuela. US officials say the vessel has become a new flashpoint between Washington and Moscow. The US Coast Guard has been monitoring the tanker in the Atlantic Ocean for the past two weeks.
Citing a US official, the report claims that Russia sent a submarine and other naval resources to escort an empty and rusted oil tanker, escalating tensions between the two powers. The tanker, named “Bella 1,” failed to load oil in Venezuela and is now heading toward Russia. The United States alleges that the ship is part of a so-called “dark fleet” used for illegal oil trading.
In December, the US Coast Guard attempted to seize the tanker, but the crew managed to evade the action. During the pursuit, the crew painted a Russian flag on the vessel and renamed it “Marinera.” Experts say Russia granted registration to the tanker without proper inspection to provide it protection under international maritime laws. Russia has demanded that the US immediately stop pursuing the vessel.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation involving the tanker. Meanwhile, the US Southern Command stated on social media that it is prepared to take action against sanctioned vessels moving through the region. At present, the tanker is reportedly sailing toward the North Sea, around 300 miles south of Iceland. Russian state media RT released a video claiming that the US is attempting to stop a civilian ship.
The dispute comes at a time when diplomatic talks between Washington and Moscow are ongoing over the Ukraine conflict. During this period, US President Donald Trump criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of causing large-scale loss of life. Following sanctions on Russia, more than 1,000 ageing tankers are believed to be operating as part of a “dark fleet,” supplying oil illegally without insurance. The US has already seized two major vessels from this fleet, Skipper and Centuries.