Georgia will clarify the facts behind the US seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker and seek information on its Georgian crew members, the country’s Maritime Transport Agency said on Thursday.
Officials said six Georgian citizens were among 28 crew members on the seized tanker, the Marinera. One is reportedly the ship's captain.
“The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia is currently clarifying the factual circumstances, including identifying the ship’s employing company and searching for information about the Georgian crew members,” a statement said.
On Wednesday, US forces announced the seizure of the Marinera in the North Atlantic Ocean for alleged violations of US sanctions.
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the tanker was considered part of Venezuela’s "shadow fleet" and was transporting oil subject to US sanctions.
She told reporters the vessel was deemed "stateless" after sailing under a "false flag" and was subject to a judicial seizure order, which she said formed the legal basis for US action.
"That means the crew is now subject to prosecution for any applicable violation of federal law, and they will be brought to the United States for such prosecution, if necessary," she added.
Russia blasted the ship’s seizure as a “gross violation of the fundamental principles and norms of international maritime law,” saying the tanker received temporary permission to fly the country's flag on Dec. 24 and was "innocently passing through international waters," heading toward a Russian port when it was seized.
By Kanyshai Butun
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr
