Sanctioned Russian Tankers Avoid English Channel After Smyrtos Detention
After British forces detained the Russian “shadow fleet” tanker Smyrtos (IMO 9389100) on June 14, use of the English Channel by sanctioned vessels fell by about 40%, according to a report by the open source intelligence (OSINT) project Russian Forces Spotter.
The detention of the Smyrtos marked a significant shift in the tactics employed by sanctioned Russian tankers. Prior to this incident, many had chosen to navigate through the English Channel, despite being subject to international sanctions. However, following the British military operation, at least 75% of these vessels opted for a longer route running north around Scotland between the Faroe and Shetland islands.
Alternative Routes Emerge
According to an analysis of Starboard Maritime Intelligence data published June 26, at least 29 Russian “shadow fleet” tankers chose to bypass the UK and Ireland through the Atlantic in the two weeks following the British military operation. This development highlights the adaptability of sanctioned vessels as they seek to evade international sanctions.
Despite this shift, the English Channel has not been abandoned entirely. During the period in question, 14 tankers facing UK, EU, or U.S. sanctions passed through the Channel. These vessels likely represent a smaller subset of the overall sanctioned fleet, which may have chosen to maintain their traditional routes due to various factors such as fuel efficiency or logistical considerations.
Sanctions Enforcement Remains a Complex Issue
The Smyrtos detention and subsequent changes in sanctioned vessel routing underscore the ongoing challenges faced by international authorities in enforcing sanctions against Russia. As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for governments and regulatory bodies to remain vigilant and adapt their strategies to counter the ever-changing tactics employed by sanctioned vessels.
In conclusion, the detention of the Smyrtos has led to a significant shift in the behavior of sanctioned Russian tankers, with many opting for alternative routes to avoid international sanctions. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for authorities to remain proactive and responsive to these developments to effectively enforce sanctions and maintain global security.
Original Article: Three-quarters of sanctioned Russian tankers avoided the English Channel after British forces detained the Smyrtos, OSINT project says — Theins