Secret Ops in Caribbean: U.S. Hits Russia Again

New,York,-,Nov,25,2015:,Members,Of,The,U.s.

A bold U.S. operation in the North Atlantic signals a new chapter in the standoff against Russia.

Story Snapshot

U.S. forces seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker, Marinera, in the North Atlantic.
Air Force Special Operations moved aircraft to support the operation.
Russia decries the seizure as “21st-century piracy”.
The operation included parallel actions in the Caribbean.

U.S. Special Operations Aircraft Deployed

The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) strategically moved three U-28A Draco aircraft from RAF Mildenhall and RAF Coningsby in the UK toward the North Atlantic. This deployment aimed to support the interdiction of the Russian-flagged oil tanker, Marinera, which had been evading sanctions. The aircraft provided real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, crucial for the operation’s success.

This military maneuver underscores the U.S. commitment to enforcing sanctions and demonstrates the ability to reposition assets rapidly in support of strategic objectives.

Air Force Moves Special-Operations Forces Toward North Atlantic in Move Against Russiahttps://t.co/U78MAplWom

— 19FortyFive (@19_forty_five) January 11, 2026

Successful Seizure of Marinera

The Marinera, formerly known as Bella 1, became a focal point of international tension when U.S. forces intercepted it in the North Atlantic after a 17-day chase that began near Venezuela. The U.S. European Command (EUCOM) confirmed the seizure, which was executed under a U.S. federal court warrant. The operation involved the U.S. Coast Guard’s USCGC Munro, with assistance from the RAF, marking a decisive move against Russia’s “dark fleet” of sanction-evading vessels.

This operation not only targeted the Marinera but also included the seizure of the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean, further showcasing U.S. resolve to disrupt illicit oil shipments linked to sanctioned regimes.

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International Reactions and Implications

Russia has condemned the seizure of the Marinera, labeling it as “21st-century piracy” and a breach of international law, specifically citing UNCLOS provisions against the use of force on flagged vessels. Despite these protests, the U.S. maintains that its actions are justified under domestic sanctions authorities, highlighting a legal and geopolitical tension between American enforcement and Russian opposition.

The operation signals a potent message to both Russia and other nations involved in sanctions-busting activities. It reflects the U.S.’s willingness to act unilaterally and enforce international norms against illicit trade, even in contested waters.

As the global community watches, this operation might set a precedent for future enforcement actions, potentially escalating maritime confrontations in strategic regions like the North Atlantic and beyond.