Much of the shadow LNG fleet consists of ships that are about to be scrapped, posing significant environmental risks. Smuggling vessels often turn off their signals, in violation of maritime safety rules.
According to a statement issued by the British Prime Minister's Office on Friday, many of the Russian smuggling ships are not properly maintained and operate without insurance.
Furthermore, they call on all states under whose flag ships operate to require these ships to comply with stricter safety and pollution prevention standards.
Port states are required to closely monitor the necessary permits. Ship owners, operators, insurers and brokers are encouraged to report all shadow fleet activity and take steps to prevent it.
Downing Street also asked relevant officials and experts to meet as soon as possible to identify concrete actions to achieve the goals.
The European Union and a number of its member states, including Hungary, have rallied behind the British government's call.
Cover image is an illustration. Cover image source: Getty Images
