The German government reveals that an oil tanker stranded in the Baltic Sea is part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet", highlighted by accusations from Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock regarding Moscow's attempts to evade sanctions.
Germany Discovers 'Shadow Fleet' Oil Tanker in Baltic Sea: A New Maritime Concern
Germany Discovers 'Shadow Fleet' Oil Tanker in Baltic Sea: A New Maritime Concern
Russian-linked tanker Incident Raises Sanctions Questions Amid Rising Tensions in Europe
Germany’s maritime authorities have uncovered a concerning development in the Baltic Sea: the presence of an oil tanker linked to what is being termed Russia's “shadow fleet.” The event unfolded when the Panamanian-flagged vessel, named Eventin, encountered a loss of power and steering, leading to its immobilization in German waters. Tugboats swiftly responded to secure the ailing tanker, which was carrying approximately 99,000 tonnes of oil.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock did not mince words, directly attributing the incident to Russia's circumvention of international sanctions. Baerbock expressed grave concerns about President Vladimir Putin’s tactics and emphasized the potential risks his actions pose to European security. Although Russian authorities have remained silent in response to these latest accusations, the incident puts the spotlight squarely back on their maritime activities.
In a joint effort to address the situation, a specialized team of four was airlifted onto the Eventin to facilitate the towing operation, with three tugboats eventually taking control of the stranded vessel. The convoy, moving at a slow pace of 2.5 km per hour amid rough seas, was reported to be headed towards the German town of Sassnitz, expected to arrive in the early hours of the upcoming morning.
This situation echoes broader geopolitical tensions in Europe, particularly after the sanctions imposed by the US, UK, and EU against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Notably, the shadow fleet is characterized by aging ships that evade maritime regulations, often sailing under different flags and names. Analysts note that Russia is increasingly relying on such vessels to transport oil in the face of tightening restrictions.
In response to these maritime developments, the European Union has indicated it is working on comprehensive measures targeting this so-called shadow fleet. This includes sanctions designed to weaken entities like Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas amid ongoing discussions surrounding their involvement in financing the war in Ukraine. As tensions persist, the implications of these maritime incidents underscore the fragile state of security in Europe.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock did not mince words, directly attributing the incident to Russia's circumvention of international sanctions. Baerbock expressed grave concerns about President Vladimir Putin’s tactics and emphasized the potential risks his actions pose to European security. Although Russian authorities have remained silent in response to these latest accusations, the incident puts the spotlight squarely back on their maritime activities.
In a joint effort to address the situation, a specialized team of four was airlifted onto the Eventin to facilitate the towing operation, with three tugboats eventually taking control of the stranded vessel. The convoy, moving at a slow pace of 2.5 km per hour amid rough seas, was reported to be headed towards the German town of Sassnitz, expected to arrive in the early hours of the upcoming morning.
This situation echoes broader geopolitical tensions in Europe, particularly after the sanctions imposed by the US, UK, and EU against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Notably, the shadow fleet is characterized by aging ships that evade maritime regulations, often sailing under different flags and names. Analysts note that Russia is increasingly relying on such vessels to transport oil in the face of tightening restrictions.
In response to these maritime developments, the European Union has indicated it is working on comprehensive measures targeting this so-called shadow fleet. This includes sanctions designed to weaken entities like Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas amid ongoing discussions surrounding their involvement in financing the war in Ukraine. As tensions persist, the implications of these maritime incidents underscore the fragile state of security in Europe.
