📝 Piracy in Trend
What happens to captured Russian vessels?
Seizures of so-called "shadow fleet" ships continue, but their fate is rarely publicized.
Out of known cases:
- 9 vessels were released after inspection (with financial losses)
- 8 ships remain under arrest
- Cargo confiscation is complicated and often fails in court
- Crews sometimes face criminal charges, but not always successfully
The leaders in these operations are the USA, Sweden, and France.
Even when ships are eventually released, the delays and legal costs are significant.
More countries are joining the crackdown. Without real protection, Russian merchant shipping in European waters is becoming increasingly risky.
Effective countermeasures may require military escorts or dedicated "combat cargo" vessels.