US releases Indian crew from seized Russian-flagged oil tanker in North Atlantic
The tanker, Marinera, was intercepted during a US-led operation in international waters. American authorities have said the vessel was part of a so-called "shadow fleet" allegedly involved in transporting oil for sanctioned countries, including Venezuela, Russia and Iran.
New Delhi: Indian nationals who were among the crew of a Russian-flagged oil tanker seized by United States forces in the North Atlantic last week have been released.
The tanker, Marinera, was intercepted during a US-led operation in international waters. American authorities have said the vessel was part of a so-called "shadow fleet" allegedly involved in transporting oil for sanctioned countries, including Venezuela, Russia and Iran.
All crew members detained initially
At the time of the seizure, the tanker had 28 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals, along with crew from Ukraine, Georgia and Russia. All crew members were initially detained following the interception.
The release of the Indian nationals came amid increased diplomatic engagement. On the same day, Sergio Gor formally took charge as the United States Ambassador to India in New Delhi. Speaking after assuming office, Gor said India and the US continued to engage closely across a range of issues.
The development also follows Russia's announcement last week that US authorities had decided to release Russian crew members from the same vessel. Moscow had criticised the seizure and warned against prosecuting crew members detained during the operation.
Aftermath of US action
The United States had earlier said that members of the Marinera's crew could face prosecution, a move Russia described as "categorically unacceptable". Moscow accused Washington of escalating tensions and endangering international shipping, calling the seizure illegal.
Russia's foreign ministry said the action would "only result in further military and political tensions" and expressed concern over what it described as Washington's willingness to create "acute international crisis situations".