Russia demands the US immediately return the crew of the seized tanker Mariner.

According to ТСН: The Kremlin expressed a demand to the United States to 'immediately return' its citizens who are on board the tanker 'Mariner'.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov noted:

“The United States must not hinder the swift return of Russian citizens from the vessel 'Mariner' to their homeland.”

Despite numerous human rights violations committed by the Russian authorities themselves, their diplomats called on the US to ensure 'humane treatment' of the crew and respect their rights.

What is known about the seizure of the tanker

At the end of December, the US Coast Guard attempted to intercept the vessel Bella 1 in the Caribbean Sea, which was heading to Venezuela for oil. The tanker, which was under sanctions, displayed the Russian tricolor, causing the US fleet to retreat.

According to the New York Times, Russia had asked the US not to interfere in this incident.

It soon became known that the Kremlin sent military forces to protect its tanker from American troops.

However, the US still carried out an operation to seize the tanker 'Mariner', which was sailing under the Russian flag and was linked to Venezuela.

Russia condemned the actions of the US, accusing them of 'piracy' for seizing the tanker 'Mariner'.

These events further escalated tensions in the relations between Russia and the US. The actions of the American military provoked outrage from Moscow, which, in turn, could lead to new sanctions and escalation of the conflict in international waters. Observers believe that the situation surrounding the tanker could be a signal for further actions by both countries in possible maritime conflicts.