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Moscow says it expects U.S. to release Russian crew from seized Venezuela-linked tanker

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 20, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: January 20, 2026

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Moscow says it expects U.S. to release Russian crew from seized Venezuela-linked tanker
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MOSCOW, Jan 20 (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday that Moscow expects the United States to free the Russian crew members aboard a Venezuela-linked oil tanker seized by

Moscow says it expects U.S. to release Russian crew from seized Venezuela-lin...

U.S. Seizure of Venezuelan Oil Tanker

MOSCOW, Jan 20 (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday that Moscow expects the United States to free the Russian crew members aboard a Venezuela-linked oil tanker seized by Washington in the Atlantic earlier this month.

Details of the Crew Members

Lavrov said two Russians, as well as Ukrainians, Georgians and Indians, were serving as crew members on the Marinera when U.S. naval forces boarded it near Iceland on January 7 as part of efforts to block oil exports from Venezuela.

Statements from Russian Officials

(Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)

Key Takeaways

  • Russia expects the US to release the Russian crew.
  • The tanker was seized by US forces near Iceland.
  • Crew includes Russians, Ukrainians, Georgians, and Indians.
  • Seizure is part of efforts to block Venezuelan oil exports.
  • Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made the statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an oil tanker?
An oil tanker is a ship designed for the bulk transport of oil and its products. These vessels are crucial for the global oil supply chain, transporting crude oil from extraction sites to refineries.
What is a seized vessel?
A seized vessel refers to a ship that has been taken over by authorities, usually due to legal or regulatory violations. This can occur in cases involving smuggling, piracy, or sanctions violations.
What is a naval force?
Naval forces are military units that operate at sea, including ships, submarines, and aircraft. They are responsible for protecting a nation's maritime interests and conducting operations in international waters.
What is an oil export?
Oil export refers to the sale and shipment of crude oil or refined petroleum products from one country to another. It plays a significant role in the global economy and energy markets.

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