Economist Podcasts Oil pressure: America’s tanker seizures
69 snips
Jan 8, 2026 
David Adams, the Cuba correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on Cuba's fragility as it grapples with energy issues due to Venezuelan oil disruptions. He assures that despite public despair, the Cuban regime's resilience is notable. John Fasman, Senior culture correspondent, raises intriguing concerns about fan attendance at the 2026 World Cup, reflecting on the potential impact of U.S. politics and logistics. Yet, he remains optimistic, citing the tournament's allure and America's evolving soccer culture as key draws for fans.
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Dramatic Shadow Fleet Escape
- The Bella One/Bella One-turned-Maranera staged a slow-motion escape, shutting off transponders and repainting a Russian flag to avoid interception.
- U.S. forces, aided by Britain, later located and boarded the vessel near Iceland after a weeks-long chase.
Shadow Fleet Links Nations To Oil Evasion
- The seized ships illustrate a real operational nexus between Russia, Iran and Venezuela in sanctions-busting oil moves.
- The 'shadow fleet' uses spoofing and clandestine transfers to evade tracking and sanctions enforcement.
Flag Law Enabled The Seizure
- U.S. domestic sanctions alone don't authorize high-seas seizures, but stateless ships can be boarded under UNCLOS.
- The Bella One's disputed flag registration likely rendered it stateless and legally boardable.