Dutch MEP urges EU to use all available options to counter the Russian Federation's 'shadow fleet'

The EU should use all available options to counter the Russian Federation's "shadow fleet" and engage in more detailed technical inspections of these vessels on shore and at sea. If something is wrong with insurance, administration or obviously dangerous — the navigation of such vessels should be stopped. After all, the environmental challenges and threats of the "shadow fleet" are enormous. Due to the poor condition of tankers, they are floating environmental disasters just waiting to happen.

European Parliament member Theis Reuten stated in commentary for the Guildhall.

"The environmental challenges and threats of the "shadow fleet", in addition to the disastrous continuation of fuel supplies for the Russian military forces, are enormous. The vessels are mostly old, poorly maintained and often under-insured or not insured at all. Because of the tankers' poor condition, they are floating environmental disasters just waiting to happen", — the MP said.

"Maritime rules and treaties on coastal states and the protection of coasts, the environment and wildlife should be used to counter the threat of the "shadow fleet". The environmental threat is as real as the danger of financing Putin's war through continued fuel exports. The European Parliament, at my suggestion, has demanded more detailed technical checks of these vessels ashore and at sea. If something is wrong with insurance, administration or clearly dangerous: stop sailing immediately. Finally, EU member states, together with their respective NATO allies, have become more assertive. At the moment EU sanctions are imposed on more ships, but we need to do more. I am in favor of using all available opportunities to fight against the "shadow fleet" of the Russian Federation", — the politician summarized.

Earlier, the MEP from Finland Maria Guzenina said that the "shadow fleet" of the Russian Federation is a serious environmental challenge for the EU. In her opinion, Russia is a serious environmental challenge for the EU. The European Union should play a more active role in combating the threat posed by Russia's shadow fleet, using its military and coast guard capabilities to ensure strict compliance with EU sanctions and environmental standards on shipping.

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