Denmark Blocks 27 Russian Ships from Local Ports & Services

Danish authorities have imposed a ban on 27 ships linked to Russia, preventing them from docking at local ports or anchoring in Danish waters. 

According to guidelines shared with Danish pilots, which were reported by Danwatch and Information, the ships are also prohibited from receiving services, such as bunkering or purchasing supplies. 

The restrictions follow the European Union's 14th sanctions package against Russia, introduced this summer, which includes these 27 vessels. Pilots have been warned that ships within Russia’s shadow fleet may attempt to change their names, making it essential to verify their IMO numbers.

Many of these Russian-linked ships have been known to stop at the anchorage near Skagen, where they stock up on provisions and bunker oil before continuing their journeys.

For months, Denmark has been collaborating with neighboring countries to find ways to prevent Russia's shadow fleet from navigating the Baltic Sea. The issue gained more urgency earlier this year after a Russian shadow tanker, loaded with oil, was involved in a collision.

Russia moves about a third of its seaborne oil exports through the Danish straits, with roughly one-third of those ships reportedly lacking known insurance.