US Forces Seize Control of Russian-Flagged Oil Tanker in North Atlantic

Blue Press Journal – January 7, 2026

In a significant escalation of tensions, US military forces have successfully boarded and taken control of a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, according to reports from the Associated Press on January 7, 2026. The operation, led by the US Coast Guard and military, follows a weeks-long pursuit of the vessel across the Atlantic.

The tanker, originally known as the Bella-1, had been attempting to evade US maritime authorities after slipping through a US-imposed “blockade” of sanctioned tankers. Despite previous efforts by the US Coast Guard to board the vessel, it had rebuffed their attempts, leading to a heightened standoff.

The seizure operation involved the use of helicopters and at least one Coast Guard vessel, marking a significant show of force by US authorities. The move is likely to heighten tensions between the US and Russia, particularly in the context of ongoing US involvement in Venezuela.

The incident underscores the complexities of global maritime law and the challenges of enforcing economic sanctions. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Russia and other involved parties will respond to the US actions.