Palau suspends flags of Russian LNG tankers, halting operations due to AIS signal tampering. Investigation shows potential cargo losses and challenges for Novatek. Delays impact marketing efforts and finding buyers for sanctioned cargo from Arctic LNG 2 project. Complexity and restrictions in LNG shipping industry highlighted. Shadow fleet remains inactive in Russian waters.
The European Union is considering a 14th package of sanctions against Russia, including banning the handling of Russian LNG and using EU ports for shipments benefitting Russia’s war efforts. EU operators would face more accountability for sanctions violations, with measures targeting transportation, media outlets, and financial transactions with Russia. (Word count: 50)
A new round of US sanctions targets owners of LNG tankers at a South Korean shipyard intended for Novatek’s Arctic LNG project. Sanctions complicate shipping operations further. Elixon Shipping, Azoria Shipping, and Glorina Shipping, based in Cyprus, face sanctions. Novatek faces challenges securing transportation capacity for its Arctic LNG 2 plant.
