Detention of the tanker Marinera
The USA has detained the oil tanker Marinera, previously known as Bella I. This tanker belongs to the Russian company 'Burevestmarin', owned by Crimean businessman Ilya Bugay. The company 'Burevestmarin' was registered in Ryazan six months ago.
Ilya Bugay has held the position of CEO of the company 'Rusneftekhimtorh' since 2018. In 2020, this company earned 4 billion rubles, which is about 49.6 million dollars. However, in 2024, 'Rusneftekhimtorh' incurred losses. Bugay graduated from the Crimean Federal University in 2008.
Details of the tanker’s detention
The tanker Marinera last docked in Venezuela or was heading there. It is listed in the state register of vessels of Russia and sails under the state flag of Russia with a home port in Sochi. The USA has also detained other tankers, including Bella I and Sophia. US authorities are preparing to bring criminal charges against the crew members of the tanker Marinera.
The detention of the tanker Marinera is part of a broader US policy on controlling international oil transportation, especially in the context of sanctions against Russia and its allies. The actions of the American authorities may indicate intentions to complicate access for Russian companies to international markets, which, in turn, could have significant economic consequences for these companies and their owners. It also highlights the growing role of Venezuela as a partner for Russia amid international sanctions imposed on both countries.