U.S.-Russia Tensions Rise After Seizure Of Russian-Flagged Tanker Linked To Venezuelan Oil

Global tensions are escalating after the United States seized oil tankers linked to Venezuela, including one flying the Russian flag, in a dramatic high-seas operation. US Coast Guard forces intercepted the sanctioned vessels in open waters, rappelling from helicopters to board the tankers before any Russian escort could intervene. Washington says the ships attempted to evade enforcement amid a global oil blockade. Russia has condemned the action, calling it a violation of international maritime norms and demanding humane treatment of its citizens. With Washington planning punitive tariffs on buyers of Russian oil, the standoff threatens to push global stability closer to the edge.