Amid heavy security, a tentative return of street life in Caracas.

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 6 min read 100% complete by The New York TimesJanuary 7, 2026 at 11:25 PM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

The United States seized the oil tanker Marinera in the North Atlantic on Wednesday after a two-week pursuit. The tanker, previously named Bella 1 and recently re-registered with Russia, had evaded the U.S. Coast Guard after an initial stop in the Caribbean while en route to Venezuela to pick up oil. U.S. officials stated the seizure was part of an effort to enforce a partial blockade on Venezuelan oil and pressure its leadership. Despite a formal request from Russia to halt the pursuit and the presence of Russian naval vessels, the Coast Guard boarded the ship without resistance from the crew. U.S. military support, including aircraft, was deployed to assist in the operation. The crew may face legal action in the United States.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Iceland 30% Britain ×230% Karoline Leavitt 40% Kristi Noem 50% North Atlantic 50% Caribbean ×250% Donald Trump 60% Russia ×470% U.S. Coast Guard ×370% Marinera (Bella 1) ×470% Venezuela ×380% United States ×490%

Keywords

oil tanker seizure 90% marinera 80% venezuela 80% u.s. coast guard 70% russia 70% energy exports 60% economic sanctions 60% maritime law 50% international waters 50% diplomatic request 40%