The United States is reportedly attempting to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela near Iceland by deploying military force.
On Jan. 7 local time, Reuters reported the development, citing two U.S. officials. According to the report, the tanker was initially known as "Bella 1," and the United States has been tracking the vessel for more than two weeks since the 21st of last month after it fled while refusing a U.S. Coast Guard boarding attempt.
The seizure operation is underway near Iceland. U.S. officials said Russian warships are located nearby.
Reuters cited a source who said, "This attempted seizure could heighten tensions with Russia," adding that it appears to be the first time in recent memory that the United States has attempted to seize a Russian-flagged vessel.