German authorities reacted strongly to the situation, linking it to broader themes of Russian aggression and shadow fleets facilitating oil transport despite sanctions.
Germany Discovers Russian Tanker in Baltic Sea Triggering Sanctions Discussions
Germany Discovers Russian Tanker in Baltic Sea Triggering Sanctions Discussions
A Russian-linked oil tanker, the Eventin, is stranded in the Baltic Sea, raising concerns over unresolved maritime security and sanctions evasion.
The Eventin, a Panamanian-flagged oil tanker, has been reported to be stuck in German waters, raising flags regarding its ties to Russia's so-called "shadow fleet." On Friday, Germany’s Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME) confirmed that the vessel had lost power and steering capabilities, prompting the deployment of tugboats for rescue operations.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock did not mince words, asserting that the stranding of the tanker is indicative of tactics employed by Russia to evade sanctions imposed due to its invasion of Ukraine. She blamed President Vladimir Putin for "circumventing" established sanctions while simultaneously threatening European security through the use of dilapidated vessels.
The Eventin is approximately 274 meters long and carries around 99,000 tonnes of oil, drifting at a slow pace in the Baltic Sea. It was reported to be located north of Germany’s island of Rügen where authorities have taken precautionary measures in light of rough seas and increasing wind speeds.
CCME noted that no oil leaks were detected from the Eventin as efforts continued to establish secure towing connections. Experts were deployed to the ship by helicopter to assist in the operation, which eventually saw three tugboats take control of the stranded vessel. By late Saturday evening, the tanker was being escorted towards Sassnitz, expected to reach port by Sunday.
The maritime incident occurs amidst increased scrutiny of Russia's oil industry following sanctions from the US, EU, and the UK aimed at hampering funding for the ongoing military operations in Ukraine. The concept of a "shadow fleet" has emerged to describe the aging ships that often operate without proper documentation and regulatory compliance, facilitating the illicit transportation of oil and other goods.
This event underlines the ongoing challenges faced by Western nations in holding Russia accountable while navigating the intricate web of maritime law and international relations. As discussions around sanctions continue, the EU has indicated a commitment to address the activities of shadow fleets directly linked to supporting Russia's economic activities and military actions.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock did not mince words, asserting that the stranding of the tanker is indicative of tactics employed by Russia to evade sanctions imposed due to its invasion of Ukraine. She blamed President Vladimir Putin for "circumventing" established sanctions while simultaneously threatening European security through the use of dilapidated vessels.
The Eventin is approximately 274 meters long and carries around 99,000 tonnes of oil, drifting at a slow pace in the Baltic Sea. It was reported to be located north of Germany’s island of Rügen where authorities have taken precautionary measures in light of rough seas and increasing wind speeds.
CCME noted that no oil leaks were detected from the Eventin as efforts continued to establish secure towing connections. Experts were deployed to the ship by helicopter to assist in the operation, which eventually saw three tugboats take control of the stranded vessel. By late Saturday evening, the tanker was being escorted towards Sassnitz, expected to reach port by Sunday.
The maritime incident occurs amidst increased scrutiny of Russia's oil industry following sanctions from the US, EU, and the UK aimed at hampering funding for the ongoing military operations in Ukraine. The concept of a "shadow fleet" has emerged to describe the aging ships that often operate without proper documentation and regulatory compliance, facilitating the illicit transportation of oil and other goods.
This event underlines the ongoing challenges faced by Western nations in holding Russia accountable while navigating the intricate web of maritime law and international relations. As discussions around sanctions continue, the EU has indicated a commitment to address the activities of shadow fleets directly linked to supporting Russia's economic activities and military actions.
