Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Wednesday welcomed the apprehension of a Russian-flagged vessel in the North Atlantic, calling it a sign of decisive US leadership and a model for dealing with Moscow amid growing global tensions, including around Venezuela.
“The apprehension of a Russian-flagged ship in the North Atlantic underscores the United States’ and President Trump’s resolute leadership,” Sybiha wrote on X.
“We welcome such an approach to dealing with Russia: act, not fear. This is also relevant to the peace process and bringing a lasting peace closer.”
The vessel, renamed Marinera and previously known as Bella-1, was seized by US forces on Wednesday, Jan. 7, after evading a US blockade on Venezuelan oil for over two weeks and being pursued across the Atlantic.
According to Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti, Russia’s foreign ministry said that they were “closely monitoring” reports that US troops had boarded the tanker.
“Considering the incoming information regarding the presence of Russian citizens among the crew, we demand that the American side ensure their humane and dignified treatment, strictly respect their rights and interests, and not impede their speedy return to their homeland,” the Kremlin added – although it is unclear how many Russian nationals are among the crew.
London, despite refusing to comment while the operation was underway, confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that its military was involved.
“UK Armed Forces provided pre-planned operational support, including basing, to US military assets interdicting the Bella 1 in the UK-Iceland-Greenland gap following a US request for assistance,” the UK Ministry of Defence said, as per AFP.
A Royal Navy ship also took on a supporting role, as did the Royal Air Force by providing “surveillance support from the air.”
In a statement, UK Defence Secretary John Healey said that the tanker seizure was “part of global efforts to crack down on sanctions busting,” and accused the Marinera of “fueling terrorism, conflict, and misery from the Middle East to Ukraine.”