Panamanian-Flagged Oil Tanker Adrift in Baltic Sea
The German government has reported that a Panamanian-flagged oil tanker, the “Eventin,” is adrift off the northern coast of Germany, carrying 99,000 tons of oil. The vessel, which was on its way from Russia’s Ust-Luga port to Egypt’s Port Said port, lost power and steering, prompting an emergency response by German authorities.
The Eventin is one of several “dilapidated oil tankers” used by Moscow to circumvent Western sanctions imposed in response to the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Germany’s Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, has criticized Russia’s reliance on these rundown vessels, warning that they pose a threat to European security.
The German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME) has dispatched three tugboats and a team of towing specialists to secure the vessel, which is drifting at low speed in coastal waters. The CCME has reported no oil leaks due to the incident, but weather conditions are expected to remain rough over the next 24 hours.
The Eventin‘s IMO number is not specified in the article, but it is one of several vessels believed to be part of Russia’s “shadow fleet.” This fleet of opaquely owned and often non-insured ships has been used by Moscow to sell its oil while circumventing Western sanctions. The European Union has sanctioned over 70 ships believed to be part of this fleet, while the US and UK have announced fresh sanctions on some 180 ships.
The incident highlights the challenges posed by Russia’s “shadow fleet” to international efforts to enforce sanctions against Moscow. Germany’s Foreign Minister has warned that these vessels pose a threat to European security, not only due to their potential for accidents but also because they allow Russia to continue selling oil while evading sanctions.
This situation is likely to have significant industry implications, as it underscores the risks and challenges posed by Russia’s “shadow fleet” to international shipping and trade. The event may also lead to increased scrutiny of vessels believed to be part of this fleet, with a view to enforcing sanctions and preventing further circumvention of Western restrictions on Russian oil exports.
Original Article: Germany says Russia ‘shadow fleet’ ship adrift in Baltic Sea – DW – 01 — Dw