Venezuela Oil Tanker Evades U.S., Russia Sends Submarine to Protect – Tensions Rise

In a dramatic turn of events, a Venezuelan oil tanker reportedly evaded the U.S. Coast Guard by disguising itself with Russian markings, raising tensions between Washington and Moscow.

Tankers, Submarines, and High-Stakes Maneuvers
The tanker, originally named Bela 1, is part of Venezuela’s so-called “dark fleet.” According to AI maritime analytics firm Windward, the vessel changed its name to Marinera and re-registered under the Russian flag while in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The move was intended to avoid detection by the U.S. Coast Guard. In a striking display, the tanker reportedly painted Russian colors on its hull to confuse authorities.

After bypassing U.S. monitoring in December, the ship was spotted near Ireland. The United States, United Kingdom, France, and Ireland are now reportedly conducting aerial surveillance of the tanker.

Russia Deploys Naval Assets
The Wall Street Journal reported late Tuesday that Russia has sent a submarine and other naval assets to escort the tanker safely into its waters, a development that could escalate international tensions. Russian state news agency RT shared footage showing the tanker’s deck with a U.S. Coast Guard cutter trailing behind.

Windward’s intelligence report stated: “To avoid capture by the U.S. Coast Guard in the Atlantic, the runaway tanker Bela 1 changed its name to Marinera mid-journey, painted the Russian flag on its hull, and re-registered under the Russian flag.” The tanker is now approximately 230 miles off the Irish coast under U.S. military monitoring. Analysts warn that any Russian intervention could further intensify the standoff.

Ongoing Surveillance and Tracking
U.S. P-8 surveillance aircraft have been tracking the tanker near Ireland in recent days. CBS News reports that the U.S. military has been following the ship since December, after Washington intensified actions against Venezuelan oil shipments.

Meanwhile, Russian naval involvement indicates that Moscow is committed to ensuring the tanker reaches its waters safely, highlighting the growing complexity of geopolitical maneuvering around Venezuela’s oil exports.