Russia Rebukes U.S. for Escalating Global Tensions Through Oil Tanker Seizure

On Thursday, Russia accused the United States of escalating tensions and endangering international shipping after the U.S. seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic the previous day.

The U.S. justified the seizure by stating that the vessel was transporting oil for countries such as Venezuela, Russia, and Iran, in breach of Western sanctions, and taking action followed the American operation that ousted Moscow’s ally Nicolás Maduro in Caracas.

The Foreign Ministry of Moscow warned that this action would only lead to «increased military and political strains,» expressing concern over «Washington’s readiness to provoke severe international crises.»

This seizure took place against the backdrop of rising frustration in Washington due to the lack of progress in diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict.

The capture of the ship followed remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated he was «not pleased» with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump also expressed skepticism regarding Putin’s assertion that Kyiv attempted to launch an attack on his residence.

Moscow asserted that the vessel was operating «in accordance with international law and under a temporary allowance based on Russian legislation to sail under the flag of the Russian Federation.»

They claimed it was en route to a Russian port and stated that Moscow had previously informed U.S. authorities about the ship’s «civilian peaceful status» multiple times.

The U.S. indicated that the crew might face legal action, which the Russian Foreign Ministry dismissed as «utterly unacceptable.»

Moreover, Moscow regarded Western sanctions as «illegitimate,» emphasizing that such measures could not serve as «justification» for «capturing vessels in international waters.»

Additionally, Russia criticized the UK for allegedly providing support to the U.S. during the tanker seizure, accusing it of having a long history of «maritime piracy.»

The UK confirmed it had offered «planned operational support» to the U.S. in the tanker confiscation.