Germany Intervenes as Russian 'Shadow Ship' Found Adrift in Baltic Sea**

The Eventin tanker, linked to Russia's 'shadow fleet', was rescued by German boats after losing power in the Baltic Sea, prompting criticism of Russia's tactics to work around oil sanctions.**

Germany's maritime authorities sprang into action recently when an oil tanker identified as belonging to Russia's "shadow fleet" was found drifting in the Baltic Sea. The Panamanian-flagged ship, known as Eventin, reportedly lost power and steering, requiring tugboats to be dispatched to secure the vessel. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock placed blame squarely on Russia, accusing President Vladimir Putin of undermining sanctions and endangering European security with a "rusty tanker fleet."

While Russia has remained silent on the incident, it has previously disregarded allegations regarding its shadow fleet. This fleet, comprising vessels that evade conventional oversight and sanctions, has come under fire following the US, UK, and EU's sanctions imposed on Russia's oil sector amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

According to the German maritime authorities (CCME), the Eventin measures 274 meters (898 feet) in length and transports approximately 99,000 tonnes of oil. Initial reports indicated that the tanker was drifting at a low speed off the coast near the German island of Rügen. A specialized team was deployed via helicopter to establish towing connections, subsequently leading to three tugboats managing the "stricken vessel," which remained immobilized.

Following a thorough update, the CCME confirmed that no oil leaks were detected and that the rescue convoy had begun its journey towards Sassnitz, with an anticipated arrival time of early Sunday. Safety precautions were enacted, as inclement weather in the form of 2.5-meter-high (8-foot) waves posed challenges during the operation.

In Baerbock's statement, she emphasized the broader implications of Russia's maneuvers, which extend beyond just the maritime incidents, tying them into a narrative of aggression towards Europe. Recent EU actions have focused on measures aimed at Russia's shadow fleet, which has been implicated in environmental security threats and the funding of military efforts against Ukraine.

The shadow fleet, defined as older vessels often lacking standard insurance and operating outside of regular regulations, has gained increased scrutiny following reports linking it to Russia's oil exports. Analysis from the Atlantic Council indicates that these vessels have become pivotal for Russia since Western countries implemented tougher embargoes aimed at restricting its oil sales.

Amid these developments, the US and UK have enforced sanctions on particular Russian energy firms believed to fund military activities, a step welcomed by officials advocating for stronger measures against Putin. The targeted companies, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, have faced severe criticism, with Gazprom Neft's representatives dismissing sanctions as unfounded.

The Eventin incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex battle for resources and maritime security unfolding in European waters, touching upon broader geopolitical tensions.