US to prosecute captain of seized oil tanker

January 28, 2026

The United States seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker called the Marinera in the North Atlantic and escorted it to Scotland's coast, accusing the vessel of violating sanctions by transporting oil for Venezuela, Russia, and Iran. American authorities arrested the ship's captain, Georgian national Avtandil Kalandadze, and the first officer, transferring them to US custody for prosecution while the remaining 26 crew members were set to be repatriated. Scottish courts rejected an appeal to prevent the captain's removal, citing laws that prevent interference with foreign governments' actions.

Who is affected

Captain Avtandil Kalandadze (Georgian national) and an unnamed first officer (in US custody facing prosecution)
26 remaining crew members (being repatriated)
Natia Dzadzamia (captain's wife, whose legal request was rejected)
The Russian government (protesting the seizure)
Scottish First Minister John Swinney and the Scottish government
The US and UK governments

What action is being taken

The US is prosecuting the captain and first officer in a US court
The 26 crew members are being repatriated to countries of their choice
US and UK officials are working together to determine the final disposition of the ship
US and UK governments are coordinating on crew member status, processing, and repatriation

Why it matters

This case highlights tensions between international sanctions enforcement and national sovereignty, particularly regarding jurisdictional authority when foreign powers conduct operations in or near another nation's territory. The incident demonstrates the complexities of coordinating between different levels of government (Westminster versus Holyrood) on matters of defense and foreign affairs, and raises questions about legal protections for individuals caught in international enforcement actions. It also underscores the ongoing enforcement of sanctions against Russia, Venezuela, and Iran despite geopolitical complications.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article beyond the ongoing repatriation of crew members and the pending prosecution of the two officers in US courts.

Read full article from source: BBC