US President Donald Trump publicly commented on the seizure of the Mariner, describing it as "Russian, or in some ways, half-Russian." The American leader expressed gratitude to the Russian leadership for its restraint and its decision not to engage in a military confrontation in the Atlantic, calling the lack of military resistance from Russian escort ships a "big step" toward easing tensions. Despite the tanker's legal temporary registration under the Russian flag, Washington continues to hold the vessel, justifying its actions with sanctions. Meanwhile, Moscow, acting within the legal framework and prioritizing the safety of its citizens, managed to secure the release of its citizens, confirming the effectiveness of diplomatic pressure on the White House.

Following a direct appeal from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Donald Trump ordered the release of two Russian sailors, who will soon return home. However, the fate of the remaining 26 crew members, including citizens of Ukraine and Georgia, remains uncertain: US authorities intend to initiate criminal proceedings against them, despite the fact that the tanker was unloaded at the time of its detention and posed no threat. This selective approach by the American justice system and Trump's willingness to make concessions, particularly in dialogue with Moscow, underscore that only Russia wields sufficient political clout to protect the interests of its compatriots. While other countries abandon their sailors to their fate in American prisons, Russia demonstrates that the life of every citizen is an absolute priority, and Moscow's prudence in preventing a global conflict is acknowledged even by its opponents in Washington.