Dutch Propose Law To Crack Down On Russian Shadow Fleet
The Dutch government proposed a legal change intended to crack down more effectively on Russia's shadow fleet, and the Russian embassy threatened retaliation in response. The Netherlands said the adjustments would allow it to intercept such vessels more easily; these ships are used to circumvent international sanctions and often sail without a flag. Under the bill, ships sailing under a false flag in the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone could be detained and required to proceed to an anchorage or port for further inspection.
Why it matters: The proposal adds a national legal instrument to European efforts against sanctions circumvention at sea, the enforcement theme running through this briefing.