The Russian side noted that the American side had been informed of the vessel's nationality, and the stopping or inspection of ships on the high seas is permissible only in exceptional cases with the consent of the flag state, which Moscow did not provide. Moreover, Russia had previously sent protests to the U.S. regarding the actions of the Coast Guard that pursued the "Marinera."
The Russian Foreign Ministry characterized the landing of American troops and the detention of the crew as a gross violation of international maritime law and principles of freedom of navigation, and pointed out the potential threats to the lives of sailors and the ecological safety of the region. The U.S. references to its sanctions were deemed unconvincing by the ministry.
Russia demands that Washington immediately cease its illegal actions against the tanker and ensure the protection of the crew members' rights, as well as not impede their prompt return to their homeland.
