EU Warships Gain Authority to Board Russian Shadow Fleet Tankers in Mediterranean
EU naval vessels have been given the authority to board ships linked to Russia’s shadow fleet in the Mediterranean, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said during an informal meeting of defense ministers on June 8.
The change comes under the European Union’s naval mission in the Mediterranean, Operation IRINI. According to Kallas, the mission has updated its rules of engagement and has now begun boarding vessels. The primary mandate of the mission remains the Libyan arms embargo, but this operational shift targets Russian “shadow fleet” vessels used to move oil while bypassing price-cap restrictions and sanctions.
Kallas emphasized that the goal is not only to respond to individual vessels but also to develop new common practices for dealing with the shadow fleet based on the experience of different countries. She highlighted the need to curb Russia’s funding of its war against Ukraine, which is facilitated by these vessels.
Russian Shadow Fleet: A Growing Concern
Russia’s shadow fleet refers to tankers and other vessels used to transport Russian oil outside regular Western-controlled shipping, insurance, and compliance systems. European officials have repeatedly warned that such vessels help Moscow generate revenue for its war against Ukraine while also creating safety, environmental, and maritime security risks.
The updated rules mark another step in Europe’s effort to move from sanctions on paper to enforcement at sea. By allowing boardings under Operation IRINI, the EU is seeking to increase pressure on the maritime networks that keep Russian oil exports moving despite restrictions.
Increased Pressure on Maritime Networks
Kallas said ministers would also discuss the European Security Strategy during the informal meeting, including what defense ministers want to see in the document and how the EU should proceed. The discussion will likely focus on how to effectively address the growing concern of Russia’s shadow fleet and its impact on global energy markets.
The French Navy has already detained the oil tanker TAGOR, a sanctioned vessel linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, which is flying the flag of Madagascar. This development demonstrates the EU’s commitment to enforcing sanctions and cracking down on illicit maritime activities.
In conclusion, the EU’s decision to allow boardings under Operation IRINI marks a significant step in its efforts to counter Russia’s shadow fleet. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains essential for European officials to work together to develop effective strategies for addressing this growing concern.
Original Article: EU Warships Can Now Board Russian Shadow Fleet Tankers in the Mediterranean, Kallas Says — UNITED24 Media — United24Media