**Ukrainian Intelligence Identifies Captain of Oil Embargo-Breaking Tanker**
The Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine has identified the captain of the oil embargo-breaking tanker FACCA, a part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers. The captain, Giorgi Devadze, is a 47-year-old Georgian citizen who served as the captain of the FACCA tanker, sailing under Panama’s flag.
**Who is Giorgi Devadze?**
According to the data provided by Ukrainian intelligence, Devadze comes from Khelvachauri, a city in Georgia. He graduated from the Batumi State Maritime Academy with a degree in navigation and had extensive experience on Handymax and Panamax tankers. However, it is unclear whether he has any connection to the FACCA tanker.
**Russia’s “Shadow Fleet”**
Ukraine’s intelligence agency has been identifying captains operating Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which helps Moscow circumvent Western sanctions and maintain its oil revenue. The shadow fleet includes a group of vessels that have been sanctioned for carrying Russian oil. The FACCA tanker was one of the vessels sanctioned by the UK, Canada, and the EU in February 2025.
**Consequences of Oil Embargo Violation**
The oil embargo imposed by the G7 countries, along with the EU and Australia, prohibits maritime transportation and insurance of Russian oil if it is sold for more than $60 per barrel. Vessels and their masters that violate the ban may also become subject to sanctions. Aside from the oil embargo violation, the FACCA tanker, built in 2004, may pose a risk of an accident and oil spill at sea.
**Commentary**
The identification of Devadze as the captain of the FACCA tanker raises concerns about Russia’s continued efforts to circumvent Western sanctions and maintain its oil revenue. The shadow fleet is a key component of Russia’s war machine, and disrupting it could have significant consequences for Moscow’s economy.
As the world continues to grapple with the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the oil embargo remains an important tool in the international community’s efforts to pressure Russia into ending its aggression. The identification of Devadze as the captain of the FACCA tanker serves as a reminder that there are still those who are willing to defy sanctions and maintain Moscow’s revenue streams.
**Deeper Analysis**
The FACCA tanker is just one example of a larger problem – Russia’s continued use of the “shadow fleet” to circumvent Western sanctions. The shadow fleet is a complex web of vessels, captains, and owners that have been sanctioned for carrying Russian oil. Disrupting this network requires a coordinated effort from governments around the world.
The identification of Devadze as the captain of the FACCA tanker serves as a reminder that there are still those who are willing to defy sanctions and maintain Moscow’s revenue streams. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and cooperation among countries in identifying and disrupting the shadow fleet.
As the international community continues to grapple with the impact of the Russian invasion, it is essential that we continue to apply pressure on Moscow through various means – including economic sanctions. The identification of Devadze as the captain of the FACCA tanker serves as a reminder that there are still those who are committed to disrupting Russia’s revenue streams.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
