The UK Ministry of Defense has confirmed that the British Armed Forces provided operational support to the US in the operation to seize the oil tanker Marinera (formerly known as Bella 1), which was sailing under the Russian flag. The operation took place in the North Atlantic, in the area between Iceland, Scotland, and Greenland.
According to the UK Ministry of Defense, support included the use of British military bases for US forces, aerial reconnaissance by Royal Air Force aircraft, and logistical assistance from the RFA Tideforce supply tanker. However, British military personnel did not participate directly in the boarding of the vessel — the seizure was carried out by US forces, including the Coast Guard and special forces.
The Marinera tanker was intercepted on Wednesday, January 7. The US accuses the ship of violating American sanctions: it was part of a “shadow fleet” that transported oil from Iran and Venezuela in circumvention of restrictions. According to tanker tracking data, Bella 1 transported millions of barrels of Iranian and Venezuelan oil to China between 2021 and 2025.
British Defense Secretary John Healey told Parliament: “The British Armed Forces have demonstrated their skill and professionalism in supporting the successful interception of the vessel by US forces. This is part of a global effort to combat sanctions evasion.“ He stressed that the operation helps counter the ”shadow fleet” that finances instability, including Russia’s actions.
The seizure of the Marinera was part of a broader US campaign to blockade Venezuelan oil following recent events in Venezuela. On the same day, US forces seized another tanker linked to Venezuela, the Sophia, in the Caribbean Sea.