Russia has deployed a 'submarine and other naval assets' to escort an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a new flashpoint in US-Russia relations, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Russia sent these assets to safeguard an old oil tanker stranded near Venezuela. As per US officials, this tanker has become a new focal point of tension between the US and Russia. The US Coast Guard has been trailing this ship in the Atlantic Ocean for the past two weeks.
An American official was quoted saying that Russia has deployed a submarine and other naval assets to escort a rusty, empty oil tanker, creating a new flashpoint in America-Russia relations.
The tanker, known as Bella 1, failed to load oil in Venezuela and is now heading towards Russia. The US is keen on curbing the illegal oil trade conducted by this 'dark fleet'.
Renaming the Tanker and Raising the Russian Flag
In December, the US Coast Guard attempted to seize the vessel, but the crew managed to evade capture. During the pursuit, the crew painted a Russian flag on the ship and renamed it 'Marinera'. Experts suggest that Russia has granted registration to this ship without scrutiny to afford it protection under international law, and has urged the US to cease its pursuit immediately.
Also Read: Trump's Strategic Move... Venezuelan Oil Headed to the US, What Price Will China Pay?
White House and Russian Warnings
Russia's foreign ministry stated it is closely monitoring the tanker's status. Meanwhile, the US military's Southern Command declared on social media that it is ready to act against sanctioned vessels passing through the region.
Currently, the tanker is moving towards the North Sea, approximately 300 miles south of Iceland.
Russian state media RT has shared video footage alleging that the US is attempting to intercept a civilian vessel.
Also Read: Heightened Tensions Over Venezuela: Russia Dispatches Submarine to Protect Tanker
Impact of Ukraine War and Oil Sanctions
This conflict emerges amidst diplomatic talks between Washington and Moscow concerning the Ukraine issue. President Donald Trump has criticized Russian President Putin, accusing him of causing numerous deaths. Following sanctions on Russia, over 1,000 aged tankers have formed a 'dark fleet', engaging in uninsured illegal oil supply. The US has already seized two major ships from this fleet, Skipper and Centuries.
