Moscow, January 8: A senior Russian lawmaker issued a sharp warning to the United States after US forces seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, suggesting that attacks on American vessels could be justified and referencing the potential use of nuclear weapons.
Alexei Zhuravlev, first deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Defence, described the January 7 interdiction of the tanker Marinera—formerly Bella 1—as “outright piracy,” equating it to an attack on Russian territory since the vessel sailed under the Russian flag. In a statement on Telegram, Zhuravlev said Moscow should “respond militarily,” advocating for torpedo strikes against US Coast Guard boats involved in the operation. He argued such measures would be necessary to “stop the US,” which he accused of acting with impunity following operations in Venezuela.
Zhuravlev further cited Russia’s military doctrine, noting that it “envisages the use of nuclear weapons” in response to attacks on national interests. He stated, “This must undoubtedly be responded to harshly and swiftly… our military doctrine even allows for the use of nuclear weapons in response to such a situation.” He added that a Russian submarine and other warships were reportedly near the vessel, and that striking the American ships could serve as a “slap on the nose” to curb US actions.
The warning marks a sharp escalation between Moscow and Washington, both of which possess substantial nuclear arsenals.
The tanker Marinera had been pursued by US forces for over two weeks after evading a blockade on sanctioned vessels near Venezuela. Following the seizure, Russia condemned the action, asserting that no nation has the right to use force against vessels lawfully registered under another state’s jurisdiction, particularly on the high seas.
Russia’s Ministry of Transport stated that Marinera received a temporary permit to sail under the Russian flag on December 24, 2025, in accordance with Russian and international law. The ministry noted that the vessel was boarded by US naval forces outside any country’s territorial waters, after which contact was lost.
The US European Command confirmed that the tanker violated US sanctions and was seized under a federal court warrant, with the operation conducted by the US Coast Guard cutter Munro. The vessel, originally sanctioned in 2024, had been renamed from Bella 1 to Marinera.
The incident has heightened tensions between the two countries, with Russia sending additional naval assets, including a submarine, in response to the US seizure. (ANI)
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