Europe Asia News

Maria Zakharova said: “In response to our appeal, US President Donald Trump decided to release two Russian citizens from among the crew of the Mariner tanker, which had previously been detained by the United States during an operation in the North Atlantic. We welcome this decision and express our gratitude to the US leadership.”

The ministry’s spokeswoman noted that practical efforts are ongoing to ensure the swift return of the Russian citizens to their homeland.

After US forces boarded the Mariner on January 7, the crew’s communication with the authorities was cut off. The vessel had received temporary permission to sail under the Russian flag on December 24.

US European Command claims the tanker was detained for “violating US sanctions.” White House Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt said the crew could face criminal charges.

The Russian Foreign Ministry stressed that the seizure of the Mariner constitutes a serious violation of maritime law and noted that the United States had repeatedly been informed about the vessel’s flag state and its peaceful status.