**Russia Releases Oil Tanker Green Admire, Days After Seizing It in Estonian Waters**
In a tense maritime dispute between Russia and Estonia, Moscow has released the oil tanker Green Admire. The vessel was detained by Russian authorities on May 18, just as it was leaving an Estonian port bound for Finland.
The Green Admire, which is registered in Liberia but owned by a Greek company, had been carrying shale oil from the Estonian port of Sillamae. Its route had been agreed upon in advance by Estonia, Russia, and Finland, but Russian authorities claimed that the ship had failed to respond to repeated warnings about entering a “dangerous” zone.
Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said that the detention was likely linked to growing pressure on Russia’s shadow fleet. This network of ships has been accused by Western nations of breaking international sanctions by transporting oil illicitly.
**A Pattern of Aggression?**
The release of the Green Admire comes just days after Russia reportedly violated NATO airspace with a fighter jet during an attempt by Estonia to intercept another tanker suspected of operating as part of the shadow fleet. This incident, which occurred on May 17, marked the second time this month that Russian military activity had put Baltic countries on high alert.
Latvia’s Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIDD) has warned of a heightened risk of unintended incidents due to Russia’s aggressive naval and aerial maneuvers in the region.
The detention and release of the Green Admire highlight the ongoing tensions between Russia and its Baltic neighbors. As these tensions escalate, the risk of further incidents or even clashes increases. The international community is watching closely as these countries navigate this complex and potentially volatile situation.
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