Albania Turns Away Tanker Linked to Russia’s Shadow Fleet
Albania’s decision to deny entry to a tanker identified by Ukrainian military intelligence as part of Russia‘s so-called shadow fleet marks more than an isolated maritime enforcement action. It is also a test of how effectively the country is translating its political alignment with Western sanctions against Moscow into practice.
Tirana Times, September 01, 2026 – Albania’s decision to deny entry to a tanker identified by Ukrainian military intelligence as part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet marks more than an isolated maritime enforcement action. It is also a test of how effectively the country is translating its political alignment with Western sanctions against Moscow into practice.
Albanian port authorities prevented the Sierra Leone-flagged tanker Hanuman from entering the Port of Durres after the vessel was identified by Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, known as GUR, and partner services as being connected to the network of ships used to transport Russian oil and petroleum products.
The episode is significant because Albania, a NATO member and European Union candidate country, has consistently aligned itself politically with EU sanctions imposed on Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Original Article: Albania Turns Away Tanker Linked to Russia’s Shadow Fleet — Tiranatimes