Estonian Navy Detains Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Baltic Sea

The 'Kiwala,' suspected of violating international sanctions, is being held near Tallinn with its crew under investigation.

Estonian forces seized the oil tanker 'Kiwala' early Friday morning near Tallinn, confirming it as part of Russia's shadow fleet circumventing sanctions.
The vessel, en route to Russia, is under multiple international sanctions and may lack a valid flag state, raising compliance concerns.
Authorities reported that the ship was not carrying cargo at the time of detention and is now anchored in Muuga Bay under naval escort.
The crew of 24, including a cooperative Chinese captain, is being investigated for documentation and compliance irregularities.
Officials clarified that the detention is unrelated to recent incidents of sabotage targeting undersea infrastructure in the region.