Summary
The seizure supports a $4.22 billion compensation award that an international arbitration court gave to Ukraine’s state energy firm Naftogaz after Russia took assets in Crimea.
Russia calls the action piracy and has protested diplomatically, while Norway says the move follows legal rulings and it will ensure the crew’s safety.
The ship, built in Finland in 1982, carries scientists, crew and passengers and includes a library, sauna and restaurants.
Both governments say they are talking to resolve the issue and to arrange travel for the people on board.