Russia has deployed a submarine and additional naval vessels to escort an aging oil tanker, Bella 1, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal, cited by a U.S. official. The report, published Tuesday, suggests Moscow is taking unusual steps to protect the vessel amid rising tensions over U.S. attempts to intercept sanctioned tankers.
Reuters noted it could not independently verify the report.
A Tanker at the Center of Geopolitical Tension
The Bella 1 has been the subject of U.S. scrutiny for weeks. According to earlier reporting, the tanker has been attempting to evade U.S. efforts to seize vessels linked to sanctioned oil shipments near Venezuela.
Other outlets have reported that the tanker recently reflagged as a Russian vessel, changed its name, and painted a Russian flag on its hull after fleeing a U.S. blockade attempt in the Caribbean.
Why Russia’s Escort Matters
The deployment of a submarine and naval escort signals:
- A direct challenge to U.S. maritime enforcement
- Russia’s willingness to protect vessels tied to sanctioned oil networks
- Escalating geopolitical friction near Venezuela and across the Atlantic
Some reports indicate the tanker has been monitored by U.S., UK, French, and Irish aircraft as it moves north in the Atlantic Ocean.
What Happens Next?
With the U.S. and Russia now effectively shadowing the same vessel, analysts warn of heightened maritime tension. Washington has not publicly commented on whether it plans further action regarding the Bella 1.
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