US president Donald Trump has approved the release of two Russian nationals from the Marinera, a Russian-flagged oil tanker seized by US forces in the North Atlantic, reported Denmark's Shipping Telegraph.

Russia welcomed the move, calling it a diplomatic gesture, but said the fate of the remaining crew remains unclear. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed gratitude to US leadership and pledged immediate action to secure the return of the released citizens.

Moscow has criticised Washington's handling of the seizure, accusing the US of unsafe pursuit in severe weather and warning of environmental risks. Russia said the tanker had temporary authorisation to fly the Russian flag since 24 December and had repeatedly informed US authorities of its civilian status.

US officials alleged the vessel had tried to evade the Coast Guard by changing its flag and name. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised the USCGC Munro crew for pursuing the tanker through storms. The White House said the seizure was linked to sanctions violations.

Russia rejected the sanctions basis as illegitimate and accused Washington of neo-colonial ambitions over Venezuelan oil. China also condemned the seizure as a violation of international law, while Britain confirmed it provided operational and surveillance support to US forces.