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U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

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Oil Market in for Uncomfortable Few Weeks After Drone Strike

 


On January 29, 2024, a drone strike killed three US soldiers in the Middle East, escalating regional conflicts and irritating oil markets. The attack’s near-term impact on oil supply is expected to be limited, but the situation is still volatile. Prosper Trading Academy CEO Scott Bauer and Eurasia Group Middle East Practice Head Ayham Kamel warn that this is not going to be a comfortable few weeks.

The oil market is already on its heels due to weak demand. Though geopolitical tensions could move prices, the impact appears muted as risks are already priced in. Bauer sees crude oil in a bearish macro position and is enthusiastic about the current volatility for traders, suggesting investors look to sell.

In conclusion, the drone strike has created an uncomfortable situation for the oil market. While the attack’s near-term impact on oil supply is expected to be limited, the situation is still volatile and could lead to further disruptions in the future.

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