Greece Seizes Russian Tanker Following EU Sanctions

Greek authorities have seized a Russian tanker off the southern coast of the Greek island of Evia, a spokesperson for the country’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy confirmed Tuesday.

Pegas, the crude oil tanker sailing under the Russian flag with 19 Russian crew members on board was seized near the town of Karystos on April 15 as part of the European Union’s latest sanctions, the spokesperson said.

They added that the authorities seized the vessel but not its oil cargo, and the ministry could not provide further details at this point.

Some background: The EU’s latest sanctions package announced earlier this month includes the closing of EU ports to Russian vessels. Exemptions were granted to vessels carrying energy, food and other humanitarian aid.