US Seizes Vessels Accused of Violating Sanctions
The U.S. seized two vessels on the high seas Jan. 7 after saying they had violated U.S. sanctions.
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One vessel, the Russian-flagged Bella 1, was seized in the North Atlantic under a warrant issued by a U.S. federal court, U.S. European Command announced in a social media post. "This seizure supports [President Donald Trump's] Proclamation targeting sanctioned vessels that threaten the security and stability of the Western Hemisphere," it added. The seizure was led by DHS with support from the Pentagon and DOJ. The U.K. defense ministry also said it provided "enabling support."
Another vessel, the Sophia, was seized by U.S. Southern Command, which called the boat a "stateless, sanctioned dark fleet motor tanker." It was "operating in international waters and conducting illicit activities in the Caribbean Sea," U.S. Southern Command said on social media, adding that it was escorting the Sophia to the U.S. for "final disposition."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill, said the tankers were seized as part of "stabilization" efforts for Venezuela, according to NBC News. Authorities in Venezuela "understand the only way they can move oil, generate revenue and not have economic collapse is if they cooperate and work with the United States," Rubio said.