China condemns US tanker seizure, warns against unilateral sanctions

China voiced strong opposition after US forces seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, saying unilateral sanctions and vessel confiscations without UN approval threaten international law. Speaking in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said such actions disregard maritime norms and infringe on the sovereignty of states, a position closely followed by Türkiye, which has repeatedly stressed respect for international law and freedom of navigation.

Beijing rejects unilateral sanctions

Mao stated that China “opposes illicit and unilateral sanctions” and warned that the arbitrary detention of ships on the high seas sets a dangerous precedent. She argued that enforcement measures lacking multilateral backing weaken global governance and increase instability in already tense regions.

Details of the US operation

US authorities confirmed the seizure of the tanker Marinera, formerly known as M/V Bella 1, citing alleged breaches of US sanctions. The operation was coordinated by the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security and Defense, and carried out under a federal court warrant after the vessel was tracked by a US Coast Guard cutter, according to official statements.

Reactions from Moscow and Caracas

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the ship was operating legally in international waters under the Russian flag and accused Washington of disproportionate interference. Venezuela went further, labeling the seizure “international piracy,” while US officials reiterated that enforcement against sanctioned oil shipments would continue worldwide.