Stricter controls: Germany is pushing for measures against the Russian shadow fleet

Stricter controls: Germany is pushing for measures against the Russian shadow fleet

Current controls on the Baltic Sea coast are intended to increase pressure on the Russian shadow fleet. German authorities specialize in scrutinizing tankers that may have inadequate insurance. This measure particularly targets those ships that may be used to circumvent sanctions against Russia. Starting Tuesday, officials will begin interviewing crews about their insurance coverage for oil spill damage. Tankers that move east near Fehmarn are particularly affected. Germany is cooperating closely with Sweden, which is also starting these controls Boyen's Media reported.

As Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) emphasizes, it is very important to get a complete picture of the ships' situation so that the right measures can be taken. Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) also emphasizes that these measures are intended to increase the pressure on the Russian shadow fleet. At the same time, the habitats in the Baltic Sea should be protected. The incoming documents and controls could lead to Europe-wide observations and potential sanctions if abnormalities are discovered. It is alarming that the insurance coverage of many of these vessels is unclear as they often stay away from reputable insurance companies and European ports.

Environmental risks and the role of the shadow fleet

The Russian shadow fleet is not only an economic problem, but also an ecological one. Loud Deutschlandfunk Greenpeace activists warn of the danger posed by outdated tankers. This fleet, which helps finance the war in Ukraine, is estimated at over 591 tankers. A third of them come from Western shipping companies, and their fake ownership and flags lead to unclear liability issues. On average, the affected tankers are 17 years old, which poses a serious risk to the delicate Baltic Sea ecosystem given their often inadequate maintenance.

In 2021, Russian oil tanker trips in the Baltic Sea increased by 70%. Last year alone, around 1,000 oil-laden tankers passed through the German coast, and this is accompanied by an increase in environmental risks. The Shadow Fleet managed to significantly minimize the effect of the oil price cap introduced by the G7 countries. Despite a price cap of $60 per barrel of crude oil, Russia generates significant revenue from this fleet.

Political reactions and future measures

MEPs are calling for tougher action against the shadow fleet and increased surveillance. According to the European Union's latest efforts, 27 shadow tankers were placed on a sanctions list just last month. The international sanctions that were imposed against Russian oil tankers are also showing initial success: over 200 tankers were sanctioned by the USA and numerous others by the EU. The Federal Agency for Civic Education reports that the Shadow Fleet may also have been used through hybrid warfare in recent years. The discussion about taking physical action against these tankers is growing louder and there is a clear need for action to address the associated environmental and safety risks.

Overall, it becomes clear that controlling the Shadow Fleet is not just a question of security. The surveillance is also seen as an essential step in the fight against the Kremlin and its economic stability. It remains to be seen whether current measures will be effective enough to both protect the Baltic Sea and limit Russia's revenue streams.