Estonia Detains Sanctioned Oil Tanker en Route to Russia

Estonia's Navy Intercepts Ship Suspected of Linking to Russia’s Shadow Fleet

On April 11, 2025, the Estonian Navy detained an oil tanker, identified as the Kiwala, as it traveled towards Russia. The vessel had entered Estonia's territorial waters in the Baltic Sea without displaying a valid flag and raised concerns regarding its legal status.

The Kiwala has been on the European Union's sanctions list since February 2025 due to its suspected involvement in facilitating oil shipments for Russia through what has been termed the “shadow fleet.” This term refers to ships that circumvent international sanctions and transport oil without adequate oversight or regulation. These vessels often do not have standard insurance or formal registration.

According to shipping data, the Kiwala was traveling from the port of Sikka, India, to the Russian port of Ust-Luga. The ship previously flew the flag of Djibouti; however, representatives from the Estonian Transport Authority indicated that Djibouti had denied registering the tanker.

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal announced the detainment via social media, asserting that Estonia takes suspicious maritime activities seriously. Under scrutiny from the European Union, the Kiwala has been flagged for utilizing high-risk shipping practices in transporting Russian oil.

Operation Details and Verification

Kristjan Truu, Director of the Maritime Division at the Estonian Transport Authority, reported that the ship's crew and captain were cooperative during the detention process, which involved naval ships and helicopters. The operation commenced on Thursday evening and concluded early Friday as the tanker entered Estonian waters. Currently, the Kiwala is anchored in Muuga Bay, where two Estonian warships are stationed nearby.

Naval Commander Ivo Vark elaborated at a press briefing that the primary goal of the operation was to verify the vessel’s documentation and legal status. He emphasized that the detention was unrelated to any damage to undersea infrastructure, an issue that has raised concerns in the Baltic region.

Veiko Kommusaar, Deputy Chief of Police and head of the Estonian Border Guard, noted the rising number of undocumented ships appearing in the Baltic Sea. He suspected that many candidates are part of Russia’s shadow fleet, designed to evade international laws and regulations.

Significance of the Detention

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna remarked that this incident marks the first time Estonia has detained a vessel linked to the shadow fleet. The Kiwala's crew comprises 24 members, including a Chinese captain. The vessel's lack of valid documentation and insurance indicates a breach of international maritime law.

Deputy Police Chief Kommusaar reiterated that ships without registration and proof of insurance are not legally permitted to operate. Estonia has increased its inspections of vessels since last year to ensure compliance with maritime regulations, particularly in light of recent security concerns regarding potential sabotage of undersea infrastructure. Officials confirmed that the Kiwala’s detainment is not connected to these incidents.

As the investigation continues, Estonia awaits confirmation from Djibouti regarding the vessel’s registration claims. Thankfully, authorities reported no environmental impact or damage to undersea cables as a result of this situation.

This operation underscores Estonia's commitment to enforcing maritime laws and countering attempts to bypass international sanctions amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.