- Russia orders ship inspections after suspected attacks on four oil tankers.
- Russian Navy to counter drone threats, enhancing maritime security.
- Italy launches terrorism probe after an explosion damaged a Greek-operated tanker.
LONDON, Feb 21 (Reuters) – Russia has ordered divers to inspect ships arriving at its ports in response to recent suspected attacks on four oil tankers. This directive, outlined in a government letter dated Feb. 14, was issued by Russia’s transport ministry and the federal agency for sea and river transport. It aims to enhance anti-terrorist protection amid growing security threats, reports gCaptain.
Recent Explosions Targeting Oil Tankers
The Russian navy will assist in safeguarding ships from drones and unmanned vessels. It is the move highlighting rising maritime tensions.
Over the past month, explosions have damaged three oil tankers in the Mediterranean and one in the Russian Baltic.
According to shipping sources and tracking data, all four vessels had recently docked at Russian ports. The causes of these incidents remain unknown.
One of the most alarming cases occurred off Italy’s coast, where the Greek-operated tanker Seajewel suffered two underwater explosions on Feb. 17 while unloading oil near Savona-Vado. Italy has since launched a terrorism investigation into the attack.
In addition, the Suezmax tanker Koala suffered an engine room explosion and ran aground earlier this month while docked at Ust-Luga, Russia’s key oil export terminal.
Russia’s Security Measures
As part of its response, Russia has mandated underwater inspections for incoming vessels, citing the increasing risks to transport infrastructure and ships carrying high-risk cargo such as crude oil and LNG.
According to the directive:
- Divers and equipment will inspect ships for foreign objects and explosives below the waterline.
- The Ministry of Defence and the National Guard will supply the divers.
- State enterprise Rosmorport will organize the inspections.
These security measures signal Moscow’s growing concerns over maritime safety and potential sabotage threats amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
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Source: gCaptain
