US Seizes Russian-Flagged Ship: Did America Violate Maritime Law?

• The US seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera (formerly Bella-1) in Icelandic waters, accusing it of violating Venezuelan sanctions.
• Russia claims the seizure violates international maritime law, citing Article 92 of UNCLOS which grants exclusive jurisdiction to the flag state on high seas.
• The US argues the action was taken under a federal court warrant against a 'shadow shipping network' and potentially under 'hot pursuit' doctrine.
• A key dispute point is whether the ship's Russian flag registration on December 24 was valid before its physical display on December 31.
• This incident could set a new precedent in international maritime law regarding flag changes during pursuit and sanction enforcement.

Why It Matters: The US seizure of a Russian-flagged ship sparks a major international law dispute over maritime jurisdiction and sanctions.