Denmark Ramps Up Inspections of Ships Carrying Russian Oil Through Narrow Straits
To safeguard the environment and maritime safety, Denmark has announced increased inspections of vessels transporting Russian oil through its narrow straits. The move aims to address concerns about older vessels operating within Moscow's shadow fleet.
The Danish Maritime Authority will conduct Port State Control checks on ships anchored outside Skagen that exhibit suspicious activity. These inspections will verify compliance with regulations related to maritime safety, environmental protection, and seafarers' welfare.
Previously, Denmark only conducted inspections when ships entered ports, but shadow fleet tankers have rarely done so. This policy shift signifies a significant change in Denmark's stance on Russian ships transiting its waters.
Denmark's decision comes in response to heightened activity of older vessels carrying oil through Danish waters. Concerns have also been raised about vessels from the shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea due to incidents involving damaged subsea cables.
Russia's shadow fleet, consisting of approximately 700 vessels, facilitates the exportation of its oil despite Western sanctions. However, opaque ownership structures and questionable safety standards cast doubt on the reliability of these tankers.
Tankers transporting Russian oil have also declined to employ specialist pilots for navigation through the Danish straits, escalating the risk of oil spills.
Denmark's narrow straits serve as a critical trade artery for Russian oil, which has largely flowed unchecked since the invasion of Ukraine. Many tankers anchor outside Skagen during their transit, sometimes remaining there for extended periods.
Denmark is collaborating with other European nations to tackle the issue of the shadow fleet. In December, it agreed to introduce checks on insurance policies, potentially leading to more stringent measures for underinsured vessels.
The Danish Maritime Authority prioritizes tankers for Port State Control measures due to their inherent risk profile. Incidents involving such vessels could severely impact safety, health, and the environment.
Finland recently inspected a shadow fleet vessel involved in damaging an undersea cable in the Baltic Sea, discovering 32 faults and deeming it unseaworthy.