Increase in Russian 'Shadow Ships' in Irish Waters Raises Concerns

Sanctioned vessels from Russia’s shadow fleet were observed sailing off Ireland between May 1st and July 16th, as captured by Starboard Maine Intelligence software.

An investigation by The Irish Times revealed a significant rise in the number of sanctioned Russian ships, known as shadow fleet vessels, passing through or near Irish-controlled waters. Nineteen of these vessels were tracked within the Irish Economic Zone (EEZ) since May, displaying unusual behavior such as taking inefficient routes or straying far from recognized shipping lanes.

This trend has prompted increased monitoring by the Defence Forces and Department of Transport due to environmental and national security concerns. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country faced extensive sanctions, leading to a growing reliance on the shadow fleet to smuggle oil and natural gas to lucrative markets in the global south.

Shadow fleet vessels engage in deceptive practices to transport sanctioned cargos, often registered in countries with limited maritime law enforcement capabilities. The environmental risks posed by these old and poorly maintained ships are significant.

Of the 19 vessels near Ireland, 18 were crude oil tankers, with 12 carrying full loads of crude oil. Twelve of these ships are under European Union sanctions, while the rest are subject to US or UK sanctions. The irregular routing of some vessels, like the Sierra and Marathon tankers opting for longer North Atlantic routes, has raised concerns among analysts.

Officials are worried about the environmental impact and potential damage to undersea cables from these vessels. The Air Corps, Naval Service, and Irish Coast Guard have intensified monitoring efforts despite resource constraints.

According to the source: The Irish Times.