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Billions Earned from Selling Tankers to Russia's Shadow Fleet
Western ship owners earned over €6 billion selling 230 old oil tankers to a "shadow fleet" facilitating Russian oil exports to India, China, and Turkey since the Ukraine invasion, raising environmental and security concerns.
- What are the long-term environmental and geopolitical risks associated with the use of this "shadow fleet" of oil tankers?
- The involvement of major European players like Maersk in the sale of oil tankers to Russia's shadow fleet reveals a systemic issue requiring stronger international cooperation to prevent sanctions circumvention. The continued use of these tankers increases risks of environmental disasters and potential espionage or sabotage. Future efforts should focus on stricter regulations and greater transparency in the shipping industry.
- What is the financial impact of Western ship owners selling old oil tankers to companies supporting Russia's sanctions evasion?
- Western ship owners have earned billions of euros by selling old oil tankers to companies that help Russia circumvent sanctions, according to research by Follow The Money (FTM). These tankers, now part of a "shadow fleet," are used to export Russian oil, primarily to India, China, and Turkey, some of which later ends up in Europe. Over 230 tankers, mostly from Greece but also from Britain, Germany, and Norway, were sold since the start of the Ukraine invasion.
- How do the sales of these tankers contribute to the continuation of the war in Ukraine and the circumvention of international sanctions?
- The sale of over 230 old oil tankers to a "shadow fleet" facilitating Russian oil exports highlights the circumvention of sanctions. These sales, generating over €6 billion in profit for Western owners, primarily Greek companies, demonstrate a significant contribution to Russia's economy despite sanctions. The use of older, potentially less safe vessels raises concerns about environmental risks.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introductory paragraphs immediately emphasize the billions earned by Western ship owners, framing the narrative around their financial gains. This sets a tone that focuses on the culpability of these owners, potentially overshadowing other aspects of the issue, such as the complexity of international sanctions and the roles played by various actors in facilitating the trade. The use of phrases like "schaduwvloot" (shadow fleet) further contributes to the negative portrayal of those involved in the trade.
Language Bias
The article uses strong, negative language to describe the actions of Western ship owners. Words like "miljarden verdiend" (billions earned), "omzeilen" (circumvent), "schimmige partijen" (shady parties), and "versleten schepen" (worn-out ships) create a negative connotation. While accurate, these choices shape the reader's perception. More neutral alternatives could include terms like "substantial profits", "avoided", "companies with opaque ownership", and "older vessels". The repeated use of "schaduwvloot" reinforces the negative imagery.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the financial gains of Western ship owners and the involvement of specific countries like Greece, Britain, Germany, and Denmark, but omits details on the extent of involvement from other Western nations. It also doesn't delve into the regulatory frameworks in place in these countries that may have allowed or inadvertently facilitated these transactions. Further, the article mentions concerns about environmental risks and sabotage, but lacks specific details or data to support the severity of these claims.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between Western ship owners profiting from the sales and the negative consequences of those sales (funding Russia's war effort and environmental risks). It doesn't fully explore the complexities of international trade, sanctions enforcement, or the potential motivations of all parties involved beyond simple profit motive. The nuance of whether the sellers knowingly supported the Russian war effort or were simply engaged in seemingly legitimate transactions is not thoroughly investigated.
Sustainable Development Goals
The sale of old oil tankers to companies aiding Russia in circumventing sanctions directly undermines international efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine. This contributes to the continuation of the conflict and instability, thus negatively impacting peace and justice.