New Delhi: Three Indian nationals who were among the crew of a Russian flagged oil tanker seized by United States forces in the North Atlantic have been released, officials confirmed on Monday. The vessel, named Marinera, was intercepted in international waters as part of a US led effort to disrupt so-called “shadow fleet” tankers allegedly transporting oil in violation of international sanctions.
The Marinera was boarded by US authorities after a prolonged pursuit that began in the Caribbean. It was suspected of carrying sanctioned oil linked to countries including Venezuela and Russia. The ship’s 28 member crew included three Indian nationals, along with Ukrainian, Georgian, and Russian seafarers.
Among the Indians was a 26 year-old merchant navy officer from Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, who was on his first sea assignment. His family had earlier expressed deep concern, noting they last heard from him on the day the vessel was seized and appealing to the Indian government for his safe return. Local authorities and family members had actively sought intervention to ensure the crew’s safety.
The release of Indian nationals follows earlier announcements that Russian crew members from the same tanker had also been freed by US authorities. Russia had strongly criticised the seizure as a violation of maritime sovereignty and warned against prosecuting the detained seafarers, describing the action as unacceptable under international law.
The operation involving the Marinera is part of a broader campaign by the United States to enforce sanctions and curb illicit oil trade. It reflects increasing efforts by Washington to prevent activities that undermine international sanctions regimes.
The incident has drawn diplomatic attention due to the multinational composition of the crew and the legal complexities surrounding actions in international waters. With the Indian crew now released, diplomatic focus is expected to remain on clarifying the situation and securing the safe return of all affected sailors.
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