US Seizure of Russia-Flagged Ship Sparks International Law Dispute

• US Coast Guard boarded the Marinera/Bella 1 in Icelandic waters, citing Venezuelan sanctions breach.
• Russia condemned the seizure as a breach of international law, stating no state can use force against properly registered ships.
• US claims it acted on a federal warrant, arguing the ship was stateless or flying a false flag before re-registration.
• The ship received a temporary permit to sail under the Russian flag on December 24, complicating its legal status.
• The incident raises new questions about the law of the sea, particularly regarding reflagging during pursuit, potentially setting a precedent.

Why It Matters: Legal experts debate if US seizure of Russia-flagged ship breached international maritime law, setting a new precedent.