Russian oil tankers circumventing sanctions via the Netherlands

Priority question for written answer P-000925/2024
to the Commission
Rule 138
Sophia in 't Veld (Renew)

An investigation by NRC has revealed that Russian oil tankers are circumventing sanctions by refuelling in Dutch waters. The vessels often change flag, name and owner, sail uninsured and regularly conceal their location by switching off their transponder. In the Netherlands, various authorities are passing the buck to each other as regards inspecting the vessels, but no tangible action is being taken to stop this instance of sanctions evasion[1].

• 1.Is the Commission aware of this form of sanctions evasion and the Netherlands' role in facilitating it?
• 2.What action does the Special Envoy for EU Sanctions take in such cases?
• 3.What action will the Commission take to ensure that the Netherlands takes sanctions evasion seriously and immediately and fully enforces the sanctions so that Russia no longer earns money from oil exports?

Submitted:26.3.2024

• [1] https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2024/03/15/poetin-komt-tanken-bij-vlissingen-a4193179