US releases two Russian crew members after tanker seizure in North Atlantic: Moscow

MOSCOW: Russia said on Friday that the United States has decided to release two Russian crew members detained after the seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, following a request from Moscow.

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the decision was taken by US President Donald Trump and confirmed that the two Russian citizens aboard the tanker Marinera would be freed. She added that Moscow welcomed the move and expressed gratitude to the US leadership.

The tanker was seized earlier this week by American authorities, who claimed it was part of a so-called “shadow fleet” transporting oil for countries including Russia, Iran and Venezuela in violation of US sanctions. The seizure took place despite the vessel reportedly being escorted by the Russian navy.

Russian officials had earlier criticised the move, calling it illegal and warning that any prosecution of the crew would be “categorically unacceptable”. Moscow accused Washington of threatening international shipping and stoking military and political tensions through what it described as unlawful actions.

Read More: Australia beat England in fifth Ashes Test to seal 4-1 series win

The US had previously indicated that members of the tanker’s crew could face legal action. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev later said that Washington had decided to release all Russian nationals aboard the vessel.

Russia’s foreign ministry reiterated concerns that such incidents could escalate tensions and create acute international crises, urging respect for international maritime law and established norms.