Tanker accident in the Kerch Strait is the result of Kremlin’s mindless policy
Over the past week, four Russian tankers broke down, including two incidents in the Kerch Strait. These failures highlight the declining state of Russia’s shipbuilding industry and point to another systemic issue caused by the war and sanctions.
The Kremlin continues to pour vast resources into its war against Ukraine, neglecting the struggles of tanker owners who are unable to repair their vessels due to Western sanctions. At the same time, manufacturers face a shortage of parts needed for building new tankers.
Western media reported on Russia’s tanker problems as early as 2023. However, Russian authorities, relying heavily on these vessels to bypass sanctions, ignored their deteriorating condition until disaster struck. Thousands of tons of fuel oil spilled into the sea, creating environmental damage that will take years to repair.
