Western allies use UNCLOS Article 110 to inspect Russian shadow tankers
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· International institutions & agencies (UN, WTO, IMF...)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Western allies are invoking Article 110 of UNCLOS to inspect Russian 'shadow tankers' used to export crude oil, following the seizure of the Bella I by the US and UK.
Background
Russia has exported approximately half of its crude oil via shadow tankers since 2022. In January, the United States and United Kingdom seized the vessel Bella I, while Denmark and Sweden have increased monitoring of transit through the Baltic Sea.
Facts for Prelims
- Intl. orgUNCLOS: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
- FactRussia exported half of its crude oil via shadow tankers since 2022
- PlaceBella I: Vessel seized by the United States and United Kingdom in January
- FactArticle 110: UNCLOS provision used by Western allies to inspect vessels
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of UNCLOS in regulating maritime trade and the implications of using international maritime law to enforce economic sanctions against sovereign states.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Jurisdictional friction: Conflict between freedom of navigation and enforcement of unilateral economic sanctions
- Maritime transparency: Challenges in identifying and tracking 'shadow' fleets in international waters
- Geopolitical leverage: Use of maritime law as a tool for economic warfare and energy security
Keywords: UNCLOS · Shadow Tankers · Maritime Law · Economic Sanctions · Freedom of Navigation
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