In fact it was just passing through Russian waters after departing the Estonian port of Sillamae. This highly unusual incident raises serious concerns about maritime safety and international relations in the region. It follows a previous effort from the Estonian navy to intercept vessels associated with Russia’s notorious “shadow fleet.”
Liberian registry aside, the Green Admire had another thing going for her prideful sails. It was instead traveling down a navigational route established by a trilateral treaty with Russia, Estonia, and Finland. This passage is intended to make maritime travel more efficient and effective, while going around shallows that threaten vessels. On the broader backlash against his detention, the news of the detention sparked shockwaves. It came less than a week after the Estonian navy fired warning shots to stop an unflagged tanker, thought to be part of Russia’s shadow fleet.
In response to the Green Admire’s detention, Russia deployed a fighter jet to escort the tanker, an action that resulted in a violation of Estonia’s airspace. This dangerous move only escalates the rising hostility between the four nations. In reaction to these incidents, Estonia has pledged to divert all maritime traffic to and from Sillamae. This decision is intended to address any similar incidents from occurring in the future and improve overall safety.
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna expressed his concerns regarding Russia’s actions, stating, “Today’s incident shows that Russia continues to behave unpredictably.” He further spoke to allies about the unfolding situation, showing the wider impact of Russia’s maritime activity on regional stability.
The use of Russia’s shadow fleet has become a critical strategy for maintaining crude oil exports amidst Western sanctions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine. These vessels, many of which operate unregistered or without flags at all, allow Russia to do so on the high seas while avoiding oversight.
We are keenly aware that the geopolitical landscape is rapidly evolving. Events such as the recent detention of the Green Admire, therefore, serve to underscore both the challenges and dangers of transiting across contested maritime spaces. The Estonian government is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of its waters and its vessels while seeking to uphold international maritime norms.
