Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers have passed through the Black Sea near Bulgaria
Greenpeace has reported an increased presence of Russian oil tankers in the Black Sea. According to data from the environmental organization, at least 14 ships from Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" passed through the waters off Bulgaria and Romania between January 1 and August 1 of this year.
These tankers are frequently used by Russia to circumvent international sanctions imposed due to the war in Ukraine. Ships in the "shadow fleet" are typically older and do not meet all modern safety standards, which poses a risk to the marine environment in the region.
Experts from Greenpeace have expressed serious concern regarding potential incidents. The passage of such vessels near the Bulgarian coast increases the danger of environmental disasters, such as oil spills, which would severely affect Black Sea beaches and ecosystems.
At present, institutions are monitoring the situation, but control over these ships is difficult as they often turn off their tracking systems. The international community continues to discuss measures for stricter monitoring of shipping in the Black Sea to ensure the security of the states in the region.