U.S. Releases Two Russian Crew Members from Seized Tanker Amid Rising Tensions

On Friday, Russia announced that the United States had opted to release two Russian crew members of a Russian-flagged oil tanker that was seized earlier in the week.

U.S. officials stated that the tanker was part of a clandestine fleet transporting oil to countries like Venezuela, Russia, and Iran, violating U.S. sanctions. The vessel was captured in the North Atlantic, despite its protection by the Russian Navy.

«In reaction to our appeal, U.S. President Donald Trump has made the decision to free two Russian nationals aboard the Marinera tanker, which was previously taken by the United States during an operation in the North Atlantic,» said Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, in a statement.

«We appreciate this decision and extend our thanks to the American leadership,» she continued.

Kirill Dmitriev, a special envoy from Russia, mentioned on Telegram that Trump had chosen to release «all Russians» aboard the Marinera tanker.

Previously, the U.S. indicated that the crew of the Marinera could face legal action—something Russia deemed «categorically unacceptable.»

On Thursday, Moscow accused Washington of escalating tensions and endangering international shipping through the seizure of the tanker, which it characterized as unlawful.

The Russian foreign ministry remarked that this action would «only lead to increased military and political tensions,» expressing concern over «Washington’s propensity to create severe international crises.»