Russia Thanks Trump For Releasing Two Russian Crew From Seized Tanker

Despite escalating tensions in the Ukraine war, some areas of cooperation remain between the US and Russia. Russia-EU relations are deteriorating, yet there's hope for improved US-Russia ties. The US seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera, suspected of transporting oil for sanctioned countries. The interception occurred in the North Atlantic, surprisingly, despite a Russian Navy escort. Russia deployed a submarine and other vessels to escort the tanker being pursued by US forces. To avoid a military clash, Russia directly appealed to the Trump administration regarding the crew. President Trump agreed to release two Russian crew members, according to Russia. Moscow welcomed the decision, expressing gratitude to the US leadership. Russia had warned that prosecuting the crew would escalate tensions. The situation, involving a Russian submarine near US forces, could have easily spiraled.