Chinese ships under sanctions seek shelter off Lofoten
Two Chinese heavy-lift vessels have recently sought shelter from bad weather off the coast of Vesterålen and Lofoten. Among the ships is a vessel that is subject to international sanctions due to its deliveries to Russian gas facilities in the Arctic.
The Norwegian Coast Guard is closely monitoring the situation. It is standard procedure for ships to seek port or shelter in Norwegian waters when weather conditions are challenging, but the presence of sanctioned vessels is drawing extra attention from the authorities.
The ships are linked to projects in Russia, a country that is subject to strict sanctions from Norway and the EU as a result of the war in Ukraine. The authorities are now assessing whether the presence of the ships requires further measures or follow-up from the Norwegian side.
The situation illustrates the increased activity in the High North and the challenges associated with monitoring shipping traffic. The Coast Guard will continue to monitor the vessels as long as they are in Norwegian areas to ensure that all regulations are followed.