Denmark to tighten checks on Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers.

Denmark strengthens inspections of vessels carrying Russian oil

The Danish Maritime Authority will begin inspecting vessels anchored off Skagen, aiming to protect the environment and ensure maritime safety. This initiative is a response to the increasing activity of old vessels transporting oil through Danish waters.

For a long Time, Denmark did not obstruct Russian vessels passing through its waters, citing a 1857 agreement. However, the Danish Maritime Authority is now changing its policy and will start inspecting vessels at anchor, not just those entering ports. This change is a reaction to the rising number of shadow fleet vessels transporting oil through Danish straits.

The narrow Danish straits are a vital trade artery through which Russian oil has been flowing unobstructed since the beginning of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Denmark is negotiating with other European countries to tackle the shadow fleet issue. In December, it agreed to implement insurance policy checks for tankers, but the problem requires collective solutions and compliance with international law.