The Russian Foreign Ministry stated on January 7 that the United States must treat Russian sailors aboard the hijacked Marinera tanker with humanity and dignity.
“The information received indicates the presence of Russian citizens among the crew,” a ministry statement read. “We demand that American authorities ensure humane and decent treatment for them, strictly observe their rights and interests, and not hinder their speedy return to their homeland.”
The ministry also reported it is closely monitoring reports of U.S. military personnel boarding the Marinera vessel in the North Atlantic.
On January 6, the Russian Ministry of Transport confirmed that the U.S. Navy had boarded the oil tanker, resulting in loss of communication with the ship. The ministry emphasized that freedom of navigation operates on international waters and no state has the right to use force against vessels registered under another jurisdiction.
