Russia Thwarts US Tanker Seizure; Venezuela Offers Oil Deals, China Backs Maduro

• US Navy pursued Venezuelan oil tanker 'Bella 1' over alleged statelessness and Iranian oil smuggling.
• Russia re-flagged the tanker as 'Marinera' under its flag, declaring it Russian territory, complicating US seizure efforts.
• Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro offered US companies investment in its oil sector, but on Venezuela's terms.
• Russia sent a diplomatic letter to the US, demanding an end to the tanker's pursuit, escalating tensions.
• China's envoy met Maduro, affirming strategic partnership, energy cooperation, and support for a multipolar world.

Why It Matters: Russia and China challenge US dominance over Venezuela's oil, escalating geopolitical tensions.