Denmark will tighten inspections of Russian oil ships in its straits to safeguard the environment and maritime safety from aging vessels.The Danish Maritime Authority will conduct Port State Control checks on anchored ships outside Skagen that aren’t in innocent passage, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental rules.The move responds to increased older vessel activity in Danish waters.
Denmark previously inspected ships only if they docked, which shadow fleet tankers rarely do.Concerns over shadow fleet vessels in the Baltic Sea are rising after incidents damaging subsea cables.Russia’s 700-ship fleet, created to bypass sanctions, operates under opaque ownership, raising safety risks.
Many tankers skip specialist pilots in Danish straits, increasing spill risks.Denmark’s narrow straits remain a key route for Russian oil, funding Putin’s war economy. Many tankers anchor off Skagen for weeks or months.Denmark is coordinating with European nations on tackling the shadow fleet. In December, it began checking tanker insurance and may take further action against those without proper coverage.
However, Copenhagen insists on joint solutions within international law.Port State Control will focus on high-risk tankers due to their severe safety and environmental risks.Last month, Finland inspected a shadow fleet vessel that damaged Baltic Sea cables, finding 32 faults and deeming it unseaworthy.
