Twelve European Union countries, including the Baltic states, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Finland, France, and Sweden, as well as the United Kingdom, Norway, and Iceland, have reached an agreement to enhance coordination in the fight against the so-called “shadow” fleet of the Russian Federation, which is used to circumvent international sanctions.
This is reported by Business • Media
Strengthening cooperation and control at sea
The joint statement emphasizes that the participating countries have agreed to deepen cooperation and ensure a unified coordinated approach at the national level to combat Russian vessels attempting to evade sanctions.
“We have agreed to further enhance our cooperation and ensure a joint and coordinated approach by our national authorities in the fight against the RF’s shadow fleet,” the joint statement reads.
The group plans to develop specific principles to promote responsible behavior among shipowners in the Baltic and North Seas, as well as to ensure transparency in maritime operations. In particular, this includes adherence to international maritime law and the implementation of measures in cases where vessels are using flags of convenience.
Rejection of lowering the price “ceiling” on oil
Despite the increased control over shadow shipments, the European Union currently does not plan to lower the maximum price for Russian oil exports from $60 to $45 per barrel. The reason for this decision is the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran, which could lead to an increase in oil prices in the global market and render the restrictions ineffective. At the same time, this proposal is not supported by the United States either.