US releases all three Indians from Russia-flagged tanker seized in North Atlantic

The Indian nationals who were part of the crew of a Russia-flagged oil tanker intercepted by US forces in the North Atlantic have been released, officials confirmed on Monday, January 12.

The development brings relief to families after days of uncertainty following the vessel’s seizure during a US-led operation in international waters.

Tanker seized over ‘shadow fleet’ allegations

The oil tanker Marinera was intercepted last week after American authorities alleged it was linked to a so-called “shadow fleet” used to transport oil on behalf of sanctioned countries such as Venezuela, Russia and Iran, as per News18.

The seizure was carried out in international waters, and all crew members on board were initially detained for questioning.

The tanker had a total of 28 crew members, including three Indian nationals, along with sailors from Ukraine, Georgia and Russia, as per News18.

US officials had earlier indicated that the crew could face prosecution, a position that later triggered strong reactions from Moscow.

Indian crew members among those freed

News18 reported that one of the Indians on board was a 26-year-old merchant navy officer from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh.

The officer was on his first sea assignment when the tanker was seized. His family had earlier said they last spoke to him on the day the interception took place.

The release of the Indian nationals followed Russia’s announcement last week that US authorities had decided to free Russian crew members from the same vessel.

Moscow had criticised the seizure and cautioned against any legal action against the detained crew, calling such moves unacceptable, as per News18.

Sergio Gor and US-India Engagement

The development coincided with Sergio Gor formally assuming charge as the new United States Ambassador to India in New Delhi.

Speaking after taking office, Gor underlined ongoing engagement between New Delhi and Washington.

“Both sides continue to actively engage. In fact, the next call on trade will occur tomorrow," Gor said in New Delhi as he formally took charge of his position.

“The United States and India are bound not just by shared interests, but by a relationship anchored at the highest level," he added, as per News18.

Russia slams US action

Russia described the tanker’s seizure as illegal and accused Washington of escalating global tensions.

Moscow warned that prosecuting the crew was “categorically unacceptable” and said such actions could threaten international shipping, as per News18.

Russia’s foreign ministry said the move will “only result in further military and political tensions", adding that it was worried by “Washington’s willingness to generate acute international crisis situations."