Change of Flags of Oil Tankers
Five oil tankers that are under US sanctions have officially changed their flags to Russian ones near Venezuela. The flag change occurred while the vessels were off the coast of Venezuela. Among the tankers that changed their registration are the vessels Bella 1 and Hyperion, as well as three other tankers.
All five vessels are under US sanctions, and their ports of registry are Sochi and Taganrog. One of the sanctioned tankers disappeared from Venezuela's territorial waters earlier this week. The oil tanker Bella 1 has been entered into the state ship register of Russia, highlighting its new status.
Reaction from Russia
In addition, Russia has deployed a submarine and other naval vessels to escort the tanker Bella 1. The Russian government has also sent a diplomatic note to the US requesting to cease the pursuit of the tanker Bella 1, indicating the seriousness of the situation and Russia's intentions to protect its interests in the region.
This event underscores the growing cooperation between Russia and Venezuela in the face of international sanctions, which could have serious implications for the global oil market. The change of flags of the tankers may be an attempt to circumvent US sanctions and ensure uninterrupted exports of Venezuelan oil, which is an important resource for the country's economy. Russia's reaction to the pursuit of the tankers indicates its readiness for active measures to protect its interests in Latin America, which could lead to further escalation of relations with the US and its allies.