EU Boards Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced on Monday that naval forces from Operation IRINI had boarded the MV SUN in the Mediterranean to verify its flag, marking the sixth interception of a suspected Russian shadow fleet vessel in recent months. The vessel was intercepted on Sunday amid suspicions it was sailing under a false flag in violation of international maritime law.
The move is seen as a significant step in the EU’s efforts to disrupt Russia‘s ability to circumvent sanctions and fuel its war effort in Ukraine. “Illegal oil sales from shadow fleet ships are a critical lifeline for Russia’s war in Ukraine, and we’ll continue to cut them off,” Kallas said. Brussels remains committed to targeting these networks as part of broader sanctions enforcement.
EU Defense Ministers to Meet on Shadow Fleet Measures
Measures targeting the shadow fleet will be discussed when EU defense ministers meet in Ireland on Tuesday, according to Kallas. The Dublin meeting will address coordination against vessels circumventing sanctions through flag manipulation. This development comes as the EU seeks to strengthen its response to Russia‘s aggressive actions in Ukraine.
The MV SUN is just one example of the many vessels suspected of being part of Russia‘s shadow fleet. These ships are often registered under flags of convenience and operate outside the normal regulatory frameworks, making it difficult for authorities to track their movements and activities. The EU has been working to disrupt these networks and prevent them from supporting Russia’s war effort.
EU’s Operation IRINI Continues to Target Russian Shadow Fleet
Operation IRINI, a naval mission established by the EU in 2021, has been instrumental in disrupting the Russian shadow fleet. Since its inception, the operation has intercepted several vessels suspected of being part of this network, including the MV SUN. The operation is designed to enforce United Nations sanctions and prevent the transfer of goods and services that could support Russia‘s war effort.
The EU’s efforts to target the Russian shadow fleet are seen as a critical step in maintaining international pressure on Moscow. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its actions.
Original Article: EU boards Russian shadow fleet tanker in Mediterranean — Yenisafak