Russia Slams US Tanker Seizure as 'Piracy,' Cites Maritime Law Violation

• Russia condemned the US seizure of the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera in the Atlantic as an illegal act and a violation of international maritime law.
• The Transport Ministry reported losing contact with the Marinera near Iceland after US naval forces boarded it, part of efforts to block Venezuelan oil exports.
• A Russian lawmaker, Andrei Klishas, labeled the US action "outright piracy," linking it to the US pressure campaign against Venezuela and attempts to capture Nicolas Maduro.
• Russia's Foreign Ministry demanded humane treatment and swift return of the Marinera's crew members.
• The incident highlights escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington, following previous military encounters like the Black Sea drone crash.

Why It Matters: Russia denounces US seizure of its oil tanker Marinera as illegal piracy, escalating international tensions.