Himachal Merchant Navy Officer Among 3 Indians Detained in US Oil Tanker Seizure

• The oil tanker Marinera, involved in Venezuelan oil shipments, was seized by the United States in the North Atlantic.
• Among the 28 crew members detained are three Indian nationals, including 26-year-old Rakshit Chauhan from Himachal Pradesh.
• Rakshit's family has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the External Affairs Minister for his safe return, especially as his wedding is scheduled for February 19.
• US authorities state the tanker violated international sanctions by transporting Venezuelan oil, part of an effort to circumvent restrictions.
• Russia has strongly reacted, accusing the US of violating international maritime law, as the ship was reportedly evading sanctions on Venezuela, Iran, and Russia.

Why It Matters: Family of Himachal Merchant Navy officer appeals for his return after US seizes oil tanker.