Russia Seizes Oil Tanker Transporting Estonian Shale to Rotterdam

russia has taken custody of an oil tanker, owned by a Greek company and flying the Liberian flag, shortly after it left a port in Estonia.

The Estonian Foreign Ministry has alerted NATO allies about this unexpected event. Margus Tsahkna pointed out that this incident highlights Moscow’s erratic behavior and reassured partners that they are on high alert.

The vessel, named Green admire, was navigating through a designated channel when it entered Russian territorial waters. According to the ministry’s statement,the ship anchored near Hogland Island on Sunday afternoon. A Greek official explained that the tanker had strayed into Russian waters to avoid shallow areas but was intercepted by Russian authorities who imposed a fine.

Aegean Ship Management from Athens operates the Green Admire,with Skuld from Norway as one of its primary insurers. So far, neither company has commented on this situation.

Originally bound for Rotterdam with a cargo of Estonian shale oil, the ship’s route through Russian waters was established under an agreement involving Estonia, Russia, and Finland to help vessels navigate around shallows in Estonian territory. Though, following this incident, ships will now be directed exclusively through Estonian waters when departing or arriving at Sillamae Port.While NATO hasn’t issued any statements regarding the matter yet—likely due to its non-Greek flag—the Greek coast guard noted their limited authority over such vessels. Nevertheless, officials in Greece have expressed their intent to monitor developments closely and offer assistance if necessary.

This situation underscores ongoing tensions in maritime navigation rights and international relations—issues that resonate beyond just Europe; similar disputes can be seen in regions like Southeast Asia where shipping lanes are often contested due to geopolitical interests.