European Maritime Security Memorandum: Non-Compliant Ships to Be Deemed ‘Stateless’
European countries bordering the North and Baltic Seas, along with the United Kingdom, issued a comprehensive declaration targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet.”
The statement announced that vessels sailing with falsified documents would be considered “stateless” under international law. It also accused Moscow of disrupting satellite navigation systems (GNSS) and manipulating Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, thereby endangering maritime safety.
European states moved to act after navigation security in the North and Baltic Seas was jeopardized, issuing a stern warning to the international maritime community. The joint declaration was signed by Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Iceland, highlighting threats to maritime safety.
Signatories accused Russia of deliberately causing GNSS disruptions. These interferences, along with AIS data manipulation, were said to increase accident risks and severely hinder search-and-rescue operations.
Pressure Mounts on the “Shadow Fleet”
Countries bordering the Baltic and North Seas emphasized that ships must sail under a single national flag and possess valid safety and insurance documents. Vessels failing to meet these requirements will be classified as “stateless.” This designation provides a legal basis for intervention in international waters. Bloomberg reported that the declaration institutionalizes European pressure on Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers, which is vital for its oil exports.
Tensions Off the Coast of France
On January 22, French authorities detained a tanker found to be sailing under a “false flag.” French President Emmanuel Macron stated that maritime authorities had determined the vessel originated from Russia, likely from the port of Murmansk. During the operation, the ship’s captain was handed over to judicial authorities by the French Navy, while the crew—reportedly including Indian nationals—remained on board.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Europe’s stance on Russian oil trade, calling current measures insufficient. Zelensky declared: “Russian oil must be stopped, seized, and sold for Europe’s benefit. Why not?”
Expanding Sanctions List
The European Union continues to broaden its sanctions regime targeting Russia’s energy exports. In December 2025, restrictions on tankers identified as part of the shadow fleet were tightened. With 41 new vessels added, nearly 600 ships are now banned from entering EU ports or accessing maritime services.
