Since 1 July 2025, German authorities have been questioning passing tankers about their insurance cover against oil pollution damage. This affects tankers passing eastbound off the coast of Fehmarn. The insurance cover of these vessels is often unknown, as they avoid reputable insurers and European ports.

Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder:

We must step up our vigilance in the Baltic Sea with regard to the shadow fleet. By having the Traffic Management Centres check the vessels’ insurance status, we are adding another point of information to our situation image. The more complete the picture, the sooner we can take action with our partner countries in the Baltic Sea region – including placing ships on a sanctions list.

Federal Foreign Minister Dr Johann Wadephul:

The new checks will help to further strengthen coordination with our friends and partners in the region. Our aim is quite clear: We are stepping up the pressure on the Russian shadow fleet and protecting the Baltic Sea ecosystem.

This measure forms part of European efforts to curb the Russian shadow fleet and improve maritime safety and the protection of the marine environment. Alongside Germany, Sweden also launched insurance status checks today. The shadow fleet comprises oil tankers, some of which are old, employ unsafe shipping practices and are used to circumvent sanctions.

The documents obtained by the Traffic Management Centres are examined by the Ship Safety Division. Any irregularities identified in the responses may lead to Europe-wide monitoring, measures by the flag state and – if further criteria are met – the ships being placed on a sanctions list.