Russia says the United States has released two Russian crew members from the Marinera, a Russian‑flagged oil tanker that was seized by US forces earlier this week in the North Atlantic. The announcement came on Friday, with the Russian Foreign Ministry confirming that President Donald Trump agreed to free the two men and that arrangements are underway for their return home.

The release was welcomed by Moscow, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova expressing gratitude to the US leadership, saying Russia is working to ensure the rapid return of its citizens. Russian transport officials had earlier reported losing contact with the Marinera after it was boarded near Iceland as part of a broader enforcement operation.

The Marinera was seized by American forces on Wednesday as part of efforts to curb oil exports linked to Venezuela that allegedly violated US sanctions. The vessel, formerly known as Bella 1, had been pursued for weeks and was operating under a Russian flag at the time of capture, complicating diplomatic relations. The US action is part of a wider crackdown on vessels in the so‑called “shadow fleet,” which Washington says has transported sanctioned oil for countries including Venezuela, Russia, and Iran.

Russia had strongly criticised the seizure, calling it unlawful and warning it could escalate military and political tensions. Despite releasing the two Russian crew members, Moscow has maintained its protests, describing the boarding and detention of sailors as unacceptable and raising concerns about maritime law and freedom of navigation.

The latest developments mark a rare step back from immediate confrontation, as the release aims to ease some diplomatic pressure, though broader disputes over sanctions enforcement and maritime jurisdiction remain unresolved.