Germany Reports Russian ‘Shadow’ Vessel Stranded in Baltic Sea

Germany Accuses Russia of Using ‘Shadow Fleet’ as Tanker Strands in Baltic Sea

German authorities have linked a stranded oil tanker, Eventin, to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” alleging it is part of a broader effort to evade international sanctions.

The Panamanian-flagged vessel lost power and steering in rough Baltic Sea waters near Germany’s Rügen Island, carrying 99,000 tonnes of oil. Tugboats were deployed to stabilize and tow the tanker to Sassnitz.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock criticized Russia for jeopardizing European security, accusing President Vladimir Putin of using outdated tankers to evade sanctions and fund the war in Ukraine.

The “shadow fleet” is characterized by aging ships with opaque ownership, operating outside standard maritime regulations. The EU, US, and UK have intensified sanctions targeting these fleets, as they are instrumental in transporting Russian oil under embargo conditions.

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