Inspection of the MV MIDAG Tanker
On November 13, 2026, the European Union Naval Force Mediterranean operation, EUNAVFOR MED IRINI, conducted an inspection of the tanker MV MIDAG in the Mediterranean Sea. The vessel is suspected to be part of Russia's covert maritime fleet. This inspection was carried out under Article 110 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The investigation revealed that MV MIDAG was operating under a counterfeit Russian flag.
Kaja Kallas stated, 'The inspection of MV MIDAG, performed in line with Article 110 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, confirmed that the ship was sailing under a false flag.'
The European Union is intensifying its crackdown on Russia's shadow fleet and is preparing new sanctions to be approved by EU foreign ministers on November 16, 2026. These upcoming measures will target:
- financial institutions;
- buyers of Russian oil;
- companies supporting the operations of Russia’s covert fleet.
By expanding its sanctions list, the EU aims to include organizations and maritime vessels involved in transporting Russian oil while circumventing existing restrictions.
Challenges in Enforcing Sanctions
Achieving a complete ban on services to tankers connected with Russia’s shadow fleet remains unresolved due to a lack of consensus among EU member states. Previously, on July 20, 2026, IRINI forces also inspected the oil tanker MV SOUTH STAR following suspicions that it was flying a false flag. The EU Council has enacted its 21st sanctions package to increase pressure on Russia’s economy and defense sector. The new restrictions encompass sanctions against:
- banks;
- cryptocurrency platforms;
- shadow fleet enterprises and vessels;
- third-country companies aiding in sanctions evasion.
The recent inspection of MV MIDAG and the planned sanctions highlight the EU’s growing commitment to combating Russia’s efforts to bypass global sanctions. This underscores the ongoing tensions in the Mediterranean, where vessels linked to Russian oil continue operating despite mounting pressure from Western nations. The unresolved need for unity among EU members on sanction policies leaves room for further strategic adjustments in response to Russia’s aggressive maneuvers.