In January, as part of Operation Southern List, US military forces seized two tankers suspected of violating sanctions. The "Marinera" (formerly "Bella") was intercepted near Iceland, while the shadow fleet tanker "Sophia" was detained in the Caribbean Sea. "Marinera" attempted to evade capture by changing its registration and raising the Russian flag, but this did not prevent its seizure by the US Navy.
The incident triggered a heated response in Russian media and among military commentators. While some called for a strong reaction, others acknowledged Russia’s inability to challenge the US directly. Meanwhile, official Russian authorities responded with restraint, apparently unwilling to escalate tensions ahead of possible negotiations. The debate also included questions about international law and whether changing a vessel’s flag provides effective protection—experts suggested this precedent increases the risk for ships engaging in sanctions evasion.
The seizure highlighted Russia’s limited options when facing the US Navy and exposed the gap between Russia’s belligerent rhetoric and actual policy. It served as a warning to the shadow fleet that flag changes may no longer offer immunity, and might in fact make vessels more vulnerable to seizure. The US action could set a precedent for other countries seeking to combat sanction dodging operations.
The Kremlin’s official response was cautious. Meanwhile, Russian media and social networks revealed a growing divide between calls for tough measures and the authorities’ inaction. The incident underscored the true balance of power and illustrated that Russia’s “red lines” are increasingly seen as empty threats.
