17 Ukrainians on detained tanker in the USA: diplomats trying to gain access.

According to ТСН: Ukrainian diplomats in the USA are taking measures to secure consular access to 17 citizens of Ukraine who are on board the detained 'shadow' tanker Bella 1. The crew of the vessel, which was sailing under the flag of Russia, is still at sea.

The tanker Bella 1, also known as Marinera, was intercepted by American forces on January 7 while transporting cargo from Venezuela. The US State Department has officially confirmed that among the crew members are 17 Ukrainians.

Situation with the vessel

The ship is currently heading to an American port under escort. Investigations regarding the crew will only begin after docking.

The Embassy of Ukraine has already addressed the American side with an official note demanding clarification regarding the legal status of the sailors and ensuring prompt access for the consul to the Ukrainians upon their arrival in the USA.

“The Ukrainian side is working to engage all available international legal mechanisms to protect the rights and interests of our citizens,” emphasized the diplomatic mission.

Political context

Earlier, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the USA Olha Stefanishyna reported that there are Ukrainians in the crew of the oil tanker Bella-1, detained by the US Coast Guard for violating the sanctions regime against Russia. The situation surrounding Bella 1 remains tense due to the political subtext.

Ukraine continues to coordinate actions with US federal agencies to monitor the condition of the sailors and exchange information. Additionally, the significance of this incident lies in the fact that it exposes the tension in relations between countries, as well as highlights the need for international protection of the rights of Ukrainian citizens who find themselves in difficult situations abroad.