Belgian Special Forces Seize Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tanker
Belgium’s special forces boarded and seized an oil tanker from Russia’s “shadow fleet” in an overnight operation announced Sunday. The vessel, identified as the “Ethera“, was intercepted in the North Sea with aerial support from French military helicopters.
The Belgian government said the tanker was escorted to the port of Zeebrugge to be seized, after being intercepted in Belgium’s exclusive economic zone. Prosecutors identified the ship, which flew the flag of Guinea, but an on-board inspection confirmed suspicion that it was sailing under a false flag.
False Flag and Forged Documents
Ship documents were found that are suspected of being false, according to the federal prosecutor’s office. The statement added that authorities have opened a criminal investigation. “If a ship sails under a false flag, this means that it does not comply with several international regulations,” the statement said.
The seized tanker was on its way back to Russia and was confirmed to be sailing under a false flag. This is part of Russia’s strategy to circumvent Western sanctions over the war in Ukraine.
International Cooperation
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that French naval forces assisted in the operation, calling it a “major blow” to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”. The Belgian defence ministry said the seized tanker was on the European Union’s sanction list. The EU has blacklisted hundreds of vessels in a bid to sap Moscow’s war chest.
The operation was carried out alongside Belgium’s G7, Nordic and Baltic partners and in coordination with France. France provided air support with two NH90 helicopters, the defence ministry said. Footage of the operation posted online by Macron showed Belgian forces rope down from the aircraft to board the ship.
Reaction from Ukraine and Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed Belgium’s “strong action against Moscow’s floating purse” and thanked France for supporting the operation. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga added that “such resolute and justified action” was required to deprive Russia of resources to continue its war against Ukraine.
Russia’s embassy in Belgium said it had not been officially notified of the tanker‘s detention, nor informed about the nationality of its crew. The embassy is currently taking the necessary steps to determine whether there are Russian citizens on board and to ensure their legal rights if confirmed.
Impact on Russia’s War Effort
Sanctions aimed at limiting Moscow’s revenues used to pursue its war have shut out many tankers carrying Russian oil from Western insurance and shipping systems. Some experts and political leaders also suspect “shadow fleet” vessels of carrying out sabotage, as part of a “hybrid war” by Russia against Western countries.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urged all partners to follow this example, counter Russia’s shadow fleet resolutely through sanctions and concrete action, and advance peace through strength.
Original Article: Belgium seizes Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tanker — Bangkokpost