Tensions between Washington and Moscow are rising after the US military began pursuing an oil tanker, which is believed to be part of the Russian shadow fleet and transporting 'black gold' from Venezuela.
The tanker in question is the 'Marinera', sailing under the Russian flag, but formerly known as 'Bela-1' under the Guinean flag. The US Navy has been pursuing the vessel for more than two weeks.
The tanker is currently located approximately 300 km from the shores of Iceland. The pursuit began in the waters of Venezuela, and Russian warships and a submarine have been sent to escort the 'Marinera'.
According to Agence France-Presse, a US military aircraft has taken off from a base in the UK, and is believed to be heading towards the area where the tanker is located.