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U.S. Coast Guard Seizes Russian Vessel Over Sanctions Violations

1/29/2026

Center

Coast Guard Seizes Ship

The U.S. Coast Guard seized the Russian-flagged Marinera in the North Atlantic on January 7, 2025, alleging sanctions violations tied to oil from Venezuela, Russia, and Iran.
Captain Avtandil Kalandadze and first officer were transferred to the United States Coast Guard Cutter Munro.
They had been held in Scottish waters, despite a court order.
U.S. authorities plan to prosecute the detained sailors, and two Russian crew members have been released.

Left

Natia Challenges Detention

Natia Dzadzama, wife of Captain Avtandil Kalandadze, seeks a judicial review of his detention aboard Marinera, Russian-flagged oil tanker captured by U.S. forces.
Lawyers seek an emergency order to prevent removal of the captain from Scottish jurisdiction.
The Scottish court granted an interim interdict against the captain and crew removal.
UK armed forces supported the U.S. operation but did not board the vessel, which had previously flown the Guyanese flag.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. imposed sanctions on Russia in 2014 after its annexation of Crimea, escalating tensions that have affected international maritime operations. The recent seizure of the Marinera, linked to oil from Venezuela, Russia, and Iran, illustrates ongoing geopolitical conflicts. Captain Avtandil Kalandadze's detention raises legal questions, as Scottish courts challenge U.S. jurisdiction, highlighting the complexities of sanctions enforcement in maritime law.

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Coast Guard Seizes Ship

The U.S. Coast Guard seized the Russian-flagged Marinera in the North Atlantic on January 7, 2025, alleging sanctions violations tied to oil from Venezuela, Russia, and Iran.
Captain Avtandil Kalandadze and first officer were transferred to the United States Coast Guard Cutter Munro.
They had been held in Scottish waters, despite a court order.
U.S. authorities plan to prosecute the detained sailors, and two Russian crew members have been released.

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