USA seized Russian tanker: why Trump is not afraid of conflict with Putin.

According to ТСН: Recently, the United States seized an oil tanker flying the Russian flag. However, the White House spokesperson assured that this will not affect President Donald Trump's relations with the leaders of Russia and China.

Caroline Levitt informed at the briefing that despite the seizure of the tanker, Trump will maintain open and honest relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Chairman Xi Jinping. She emphasized:

“I think the President has very open, honest, and good relations with both President Putin of Russia and Chairman Xi of China. As you know, since taking office about a year ago, he has spoken with them many times and I believe these personal relationships will continue.”

Caroline Levitt also highlighted that Trump will adhere to policies that best serve the interests of the USA. She explained that the seizure of vessels signifies the enforcement of the embargo on ships belonging to the “shadow fleet,” which smuggle oil illegally. Only legal trade, as defined by the United States, will be allowed.

Seizure of tanker by the USA

At the beginning of January, it was reported that the USA seized an oil tanker under the Russian flag. The vessel, originally named Bella-1, managed to slip through the maritime “blockade” of American tankers under sanctions and evade attempts to intercept it by the US Coast Guard.

The US administration confirmed that the tanker belongs to Venezuela’s shadow fleet and was transporting oil under sanctions. The crew received a court order for arrest, and they may be held accountable and returned to the US for trial.

In response to these events, Russia contacted the USA regarding the seizure of the ship 'Marinera'. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov demands that the Kremlin “immediately return” its citizens who were aboard the tanker.

This event highlights tensions in relations between the USA, Russia, and Venezuela. The seizure of the tanker once again demonstrates the USA's readiness to confront illegal oil trade and strengthen its position on the international stage. However, Russia's response could lead to new diplomatic challenges for the American administration.