Finnish Coast Guard Monitors Russia-Linked Tankers

The Gulf of Finland is currently under close scrutiny as the Finnish Coast Guard investigates potential damage to undersea cables. This damage is believed to be linked to a tanker involved in the Russian oil trade. In addition to this ongoing investigation, the Coast Guard has begun monitoring two other tankers in the area. One of these vessels has reported engine troubles, raising concerns about maritime safety and environmental risks. The situation is further complicated by adverse weather conditions affecting the operations of these tankers as they await entry into Russian ports.

Engine Troubles and Coast Guard Response

On December 29, the Finnish Coast Guard received an urgent report regarding the Panama-flagged product tanker Jazz. This vessel, measuring 600 feet (183 meters) in length and weighing 50,548 deadweight tons, was experiencing engine issues while located south of Hankoniemi at the mouth of the Gulf of Finland. The crew informed the Coast Guard that they were attempting repairs on the ship. However, as the vessel drifted overnight, it eventually anchored in a sheltered area south of Hanko.

In response to the situation, the Coast Guard deployed a tugboat and its patrol ship, Turva, to the area. Their primary objective was to ensure that the Jazz did not drift again, which could pose a risk to other vessels and the environment. Fortunately, the Coast Guard assessed the danger level as low. The Jazz was reported to be traveling in ballast and was en route from Port Sudan to load oil in Russia. This vessel is owned and managed by Turkey’s Bekmezci Group, a company known for its involvement in the Russian oil trade. Notably, many tankers in this group have recently changed names to evade Western sanctions.

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Weather Challenges and Monitoring Other Tankers

The Gulf of Finland is currently facing strong winds, which have led to several tankers circling in the area. These weather conditions have also hindered underwater surveys at the site of the damage to the EstLink 2 power cable. Among the tankers in the region, the crude oil tanker Line, registered in Guinea-Bissau and weighing 114,880 deadweight tons, has drawn particular attention. This vessel has been lingering in the Gulf of Finland since mid-December, with its crew indicating they were waiting to enter a Russian port.

The Line was sanctioned by the European Union in December as part of a broader effort targeting over 50 tankers involved in the Russian oil trade. Deputy Command of the Gulf of Finland Coast Guard District, Mikko Hirvi, stated on social media that they are closely monitoring the Line. However, they do not believe it poses any significant environmental risk at this time. The vessel’s inability to maintain anchorage is likely due to the strong winds affecting the area. Built in 2005, the Line was previously part of the Beks fleet and switched to the Guinea-Bissau flag in March 2024, while still being managed from Turkey.