The United States Coast Guard has released compelling footage of a successful maritime interdiction that unfolded in the North Atlantic on the morning of January 7, 2026, as part of the Trump Administration’s rigorous enforcement of sanctions against illicit oil exports. The footage captures the Coast Guard’s seizure of the motor tanker formerly known as Bella I, now flagged as the Marinera, in a decisive action that underscores the Administration’s commitment to cutting off revenue streams for sanctioned regimes and transnational criminal networks.

The operation began after weeks of sustained tracking by the Coast Guard and U.S. military forces following the vessel’s attempts to evade capture. Originally sanctioned in 2024 for its involvement in transporting oil linked to Venezuela’s “shadow fleet,” the tanker sought to avoid interception by changing its name and flag from Guyana to Russia and claiming protection under Russian registry. Despite those efforts, the cutter *Munro* and supporting assets maintained a persistent pursuit across thousands of miles of open ocean, ultimately leading to a boarding operation that was executed without resistance.

In the released 85-second video, viewers can see smaller Coast Guard pursuit craft approach the Marinera as personnel are transferred onboard, demonstrating the precision and professionalism of the boarding team. This action occurred in international waters and reflects a carefully coordinated law enforcement effort that included close cooperation between the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, and military partners.

The seizure of the Marinera comes on the heels of another interdiction in the Caribbean, where U.S. forces took custody of a second sanctioned tanker within hours of the Atlantic operation. Together, these actions send a clear message: the United States will not tolerate efforts to circumvent sanctions aimed at stopping the flow of illicit oil that could finance cartels, authoritarian regimes, or adversaries such as Russia and Iran.

By enforcing sanctions at sea with precision and restraint, the Trump Administration is reinforcing the integrity of international law and safeguarding American and allied interests. The footage released by the Coast Guard not only documents the success of this mission but also highlights the operational excellence of the U.S. maritime services in protecting global security and economic stability.