The Russian oil tanker Marinera, previously called Bella 1, was seized by the US Coast Guard on January 7 in the North Atlantic. Russian media reported that three Indian citizens are among the 28 crew members, which also include 17 Ukrainians, six Georgians, and two Russians. On January 8, Russia's Foreign Ministry strongly opposed the US action, calling it illegal and a violation of international maritime navigation laws. The ministry said, "We call on Washington to resume compliance with the fundamental norms and principles of international maritime navigation and immediately cease its illegal actions against the Marinera tanker and other vessels engaged in law-abiding activities on the high seas." Moscow also accused the US of “neo-colonialist tendencies” and dismissed US claims about sanctions laws justifying the seizure. It added, "Unilateral restrictive measures by the US, as well as other Western countries, are illegitimate and cannot justify attempts to establish jurisdiction and, even more so, to seize ships on the high seas." Russia demanded humane treatment of the crew and their quick return, stating, "We reiterate our demand that the US ensure humane and dignified treatment of the Russian citizens comprising the tanker’s crew, strictly observe their rights and interests, and make no obstacles to their prompt return to their homeland." According to Russia, the Marinera had temporary permission to sail under the Russian flag and was peacefully moving through international waters towards a Russian port. Russia said it had repeatedly informed the US about the ship’s civilian status and origin. The Russian Foreign Ministry called the US boarding and seizure of a civilian ship on the high seas a serious breach of maritime law and freedom of navigation. It protested formally to the US and demanded the immediate stop of these actions.