Kathrine Frich
Diplomatic tensions over a recent maritime operation have given way to a rare note of public gratitude.
After days of sharp rhetoric and competing narratives, Moscow signaled approval of a decision taken in Washington.
The move follows a high-profile seizure at sea that drew international attention and sparked political fallout.
Decision confirmed
Russia said US President Donald Trump agreed to release two Russian citizens who were part of the crew of the oil tanker Marinera.
The vessel had been seized by US authorities during an operation in the North Atlantic.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said the decision came after a formal request from Moscow.
“In response to our request, US President Donald Trump has made a decision to release two Russian citizens from the crew of the Marinera oil tanker, previously detained by the US side during an operation in the North Atlantic,” she said.
Moscow’s reaction
Zakharova welcomed the move and publicly thanked the US leadership.
“We welcome this decision and express our gratitude to the US leadership,” she said, according to TASS.
She added that Russian authorities had begun “urgent and practical development of all aspects related to ensuring the earliest possible return” of the two citizens to Russia.
Seizure at sea
The tanker, previously known as Bella I, was seized earlier this week by the US Coast Guard in coordination with other US agencies.
The operation followed what US officials described as a sustained pursuit in the Atlantic.
“At the direction of the Department of War, the US Coast Guard conducted the seizure of the tanker Bella I in the North Atlantic,” the Coast Guard said at the time.
It added that tactical teams secured the vessel “through a precision-executed joint operation.”
US stance
In a statement following the operation, the Coast Guard praised the coordination involved.
“Thanks to the efforts of the entire administration and perfect coordination, our maritime combat force is proud to master the seas, respect international law, and defend America,” the message said.
Images released by US authorities, reportedly filmed from a helicopter, showed the Marinera, sailing under a Russian flag, alongside a US Coast Guard ship.
Sources: Digi24, TASS, US Coast Guard
