Tensions rise as Russian detention of tanker sparks NATO alert
A Greek tanker flying the Liberian flag was detained by Russia in territorial waters after departing from Estonia. Today's incident shows that "Russia continues to behave in an unpredictable manner," stated the Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna.
What do you need to know?
- Detention of the tanker: The Greek tanker Green Admire, under the Liberian flag, was detained by Russia in its territorial waters after leaving the Estonian port of Sillamae.
- Estonia's reaction: The incident was immediately reported to NATO allies.
- Route change: The Estonian transport administration announced that, in the future, ships will be directed solely through Estonian territorial waters.
Why did Russia detain the tanker?
The Greek tanker, owned by a Greek company, departed from the port of Sillamae in Estonia and was heading to Rotterdam. The vessel was transporting shale oil and was following a previously agreed route through Russian territorial waters. Russia's detention of the ship prompted an immediate response from the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which informed NATO allies about the incident.
What will be the consequences for navigation?
According to the Estonian portal ERR, this incident is unprecedented. In response, the Estonian transport administration announced that ships entering and leaving the port of Sillamae will henceforth be directed solely through Estonian territorial waters. The existing channel through Russian waters was established via an agreement between Estonia, Finland, and Russia, allowing ships to bypass shallows in Estonian waters.
Estonian Foreign Minister: Russia acts unpredictably
The Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, emphasised that the incident demonstrates the unpredictability of Russia's actions. Today's incident shows that "Russia continues to behave in an unpredictable manner," Tsahkna stated. He added that NATO allies had been notified about the event.
