A bill to strengthen action against Russia’s shadow fleet was submitted to the Dutch House of Representatives on 9 October. The shadow fleet is a network of ageing tankers that Russia uses to circumvent international sanctions.
These vessels often sail without a flag or under a false flag. The revenue they generate helps Russia finance its war of aggression against Ukraine.
The legislative amendment was submitted by Vincent Karremans, Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management; Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius, Minister of Defence; and David van Weel, Minister of Justice and Security.
Also read: Netherlands to crack down on shadow fleet with new legislation
Taking action at sea
Amending the Foreign Vessels Act would provide more options for taking action at sea against vessels sailing without a flag or under a false one. If the bill is adopted, shadow fleet vessels sailing under a false flag in the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) could be detained and ordered to divert to an anchorage or port for further inspection.
A vessel could then be detained in port, and its captain arrested. The maximum prison sentence for sailing under a false flag would also increase to four years.
Urgent advice Council of State
The new legislation has been prepared as a matter of urgency. The Council of State issued urgent advice on the bill over the summer. Following that advice, further clarification was provided on how the proposal complies with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and how it would enable more effective action against the shadow fleet.
Also read: Shipping at the forefront of geopolitical crises
Espionage and sabotage
Shadow fleet vessels are used not only to transport oil, but also potentially for espionage and sabotage. The North Sea contains critical infrastructure for the Netherlands, including offshore wind farms, drilling platforms, and data and electricity cables. These vessels could be used to map or disrupt such infrastructure.
Because many of these ships are old and uninsured, they also pose risks to maritime safety and the North Sea environment. An accident could have serious environmental consequences, while the lack of valid insurance could make it difficult to recover the costs.
Also read: Netherlands to crack down on shadow fleet
