Former NATO official says US actions signal pressure tactics, not surprise escalation
Washington, DC, US, 9 January 2026 – The recent US seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the Atlantic Ocean has raised fresh questions about maritime security and global stability, but it should not come as a surprise, according to a former senior NATO official. The incident, which reportedly involved a Russian submarine operating nearby, highlights growing pressure points in international energy and security dynamics.
Jamie Shea, former NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Emerging Security Challenges, said the move reflects a clear and ongoing US strategy rather than an unexpected escalation. Speaking to CGTN, Shea explained that Washington has long been signaling its intent to clamp down on oil shipments linked to sanctioned states, particularly Venezuela.
“The US has made it clear that it wants to clamp down on Venezuela’s oil traffic,” Shea said. “It has been doing this close to Venezuela, so it’s not surprising that the United States should now go further.”
The operation targeted a tanker known as the Marinera, previously called the Bella 1. The vessel had reportedly evaded a US maritime blockade in the Caribbean and refused repeated attempts by the US Coast Guard to board it. The seizure was ultimately carried out by US Coast Guard and military forces in international waters.
US officials confirmed that Russian naval vessels were operating in the wider area at the time but stressed that there was no direct confrontation between US and Russian forces during the operation. Still, Shea noted that the real significance lies in how Moscow may respond.
“It’s going to be very interesting to see how Moscow reacts,” he said, adding that the episode could further strain relations between Washington and Moscow at a time when European leaders are hoping for renewed diplomatic momentum on Ukraine.
Greenland’s remarks add to alliance anxiety
Beyond the tanker seizure, Shea also addressed renewed comments from the White House regarding Greenland. On Tuesday, US officials said President Donald Trump is again discussing options for acquiring the strategically located island, including the possible use of military force.
Shea dismissed the idea of a military takeover as unrealistic, calling it rhetoric rather than a serious policy direction. He said such a move would lack any practical military purpose, given existing agreements.
“The US already has the right to station military forces in Greenland under a defense agreement with Denmark,” Shea explained. “There is no need to resort to force.”
Under NATO commitments, the United States already has an obligation to help defend Greenland, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Shea warned that even talking about force could damage trust within the alliance.
“All of this talk undermines NATO,” he said, suggesting it could give Russia the impression of a divided and distracted alliance.
European leaders, Shea believes, may respond by proposing alternative paths forward, such as joint US-European investments in Greenland and shared responsibility for its defense. He added that Europe could turn long-standing US calls for higher defense spending into an opportunity for cooperation rather than conflict.
Concerns beyond the Atlantic
The ripple effects of US military actions are being felt far beyond Europe and the Atlantic. In Asia, Singapore’s Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong voiced concern over US military intervention in Venezuela, speaking at the Regional Outlook Forum 2026.
From the perspective of smaller nations, Lee said, such actions raise troubling questions about the future of the international system. He stressed that military intervention in other countries creates uncertainty and unease for states that rely on international law and global norms.
“The longer-term consequences on the international system are something we have to worry about,” Lee said, adding that Singapore opposes military intervention as it runs counter to the principles of the United Nations Charter.
A moment of global reflection
Taken together, the tanker seizure, renewed Greenland rhetoric, and international reactions reflect a period of heightened sensitivity in global security. While experts like Shea caution against overreaction, they also underline the importance of clear communication, alliance unity, and respect for established agreements.
