Why did Moscow extend so much effort to protect a ship described in media reports as an “empty, rusting oil tanker”?

By Park MacDougald and Nicole Wizman | Tablet Magazine

For the original article this summary is based on, see the publisher’s website here.

Summarized by Probe International

The United States recently seized an oil tanker, originally named Bella 1 and now called Marinera, which was part of the Iranian shadow fleet and sailing under a Russian flag in the North Atlantic. This action was taken under a U.S. court order due to the ship’s suspected violation of the U.S. blockade on Venezuela. The seizure followed a diplomatic standoff, during which Russia dispatched naval escorts to protect the tanker. The U.S. Coast Guard had previously attempted to board the ship in December but was repelled.

The Tablet reports the situation may involve more than just an empty oil tanker; it could indicate the presence of Russian or Iranian personnel or intelligence capabilities on board, which would explain Russia’s strong response to protect the vessel.

A personnel and intelligence-focused perspective clarifies the inconsistencies in the commercial narratives surrounding the Marinera, asserts the Tablet; if the ship was transporting Russian or Iranian advisers and intelligence personnel, it serves as a delivery mechanism rather than a typical transport, making the loss of such personnel unacceptable for states. Capturing foreign military personnel at sea is a significant strategic event, as it can lead to detention and exposure of networks and operational intents, which is why the U.S. acted swiftly to prevent those on board from reaching Venezuela, as their disembarkation would make the situation irreversible and the capabilities they provide unattainable.