US-Russia nearing tensions

09-Jan-2026

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The United States has seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, capping a weeks-long pursuit that has drawn in US and allied military assets and triggered sharp protests from Moscow. 

The tanker, accused of violating US sanctions linked to Venezuela, was intercepted far from US shores, raising concerns of a fresh flashpoint between Washington and Russia.

The seizure comes amid President Donald Trump’s aggressive push to enforce oil sanctions worldwide and just days after US forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Russia has called the tanker operation illegal, saying it breached international maritime law and freedom of navigation.