Overview
- CREA identified 113 Russian-linked vessels flying false flags in January–September, carrying about 11 million tonnes of oil.
- India was the largest single destination, receiving 5.4 million tonnes worth €2.1 billion via 30 such tankers.
- At least 96 sanctioned ships used false flags this year, with 85 reflagging repeatedly within six months of being sanctioned.
- False-flagged cargo valued at €1.4 billion transited the Danish Straits in September, highlighting risks from uninsured, aging tankers.
- The analysis drew on Equasis records cross-checked with the IMO GSIS, as experts warn enforcement could prove costly and politically fraught.