Rising Alarm Over Unmonitored Russian Fleet in Canary Islands Waters

On October 28, 2023, during a parliamentary session in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, raised urgent concerns about the lack of information regarding the movement of vessels from what is being referred to as the “ghost fleet” through the waters of the archipelago. This fleet is estimated to consist of around 1,000 ships, and Clavijo’s remarks came in response to inquiries from Raúl Acosta, a deputy from the Agrupación Herreña Independiente party.

Clavijo’s comments highlighted a pressing issue: the absence of governmental oversight and communication regarding these vessels. He expressed frustration over the central government’s failure to provide any updates or information, stating that despite numerous attempts to engage with officials, there has been no response. This lack of transparency raises significant questions about the nature of the ships traversing these waters and the potential implications for the region.

The President articulated his concerns by stating, “When there is no information and we do not know what is happening with the more than 1,000 ghost fleet vessels, it is clear that we cannot ascertain what type of transport is passing through or under what conditions.” This statement underscores the gravity of the situation, as the absence of data not only complicates maritime safety efforts but also poses risks to the environment and local communities.

Clavijo further elaborated on the potential dangers posed by these vessels, noting that some may be outdated and not equipped with modern safety features. He warned that such ships could lead to environmental disasters, including oil spills or maritime accidents. The repercussions of such incidents would be dire, affecting the Canary Islands’ coastlines, harming biodiversity, and jeopardizing the tourism sector, which is crucial to the local economy.

In response to these alarming developments, the Canary government has made concerted efforts to communicate its concerns to the Spanish government throughout the current legislative session. Clavijo emphasized the necessity of formally addressing these issues in writing to the relevant minister, indicating that the situation requires immediate attention and action.

Expressing his disappointment over the lack of engagement from the central government, Clavijo remarked, “Unfortunately, we have yet to receive a response from the minister. We will persist, we will wait, and in the next meeting that Councillor Pablo Rodríguez has with the government or with the minister or secretary of state, we will bring this matter to the table.” This ongoing dialogue reflects the critical importance of maritime safety and environmental protection in the Canary Islands, as well as the need for accountability from national authorities.

The ghost fleet phenomenon has raised alarms not only in the Canary Islands but also in other regions where unmonitored vessels pose similar risks. The lack of regulation and oversight can lead to a range of issues, from illegal fishing practices to potential security threats. As the Canary Islands are a vital transit point in the Atlantic, the implications of unmonitored maritime traffic extend beyond local waters, affecting international shipping routes and regional stability.

As the Canary Islands continue to grapple with these challenges, the local government is urging the Spanish authorities to take immediate action. Clavijo’s insistence on the need for a response highlights the urgency of the situation, as the safety of the islands and their inhabitants hangs in the balance. The potential environmental impact of outdated vessels navigating these waters cannot be overstated, and the local government is determined to advocate for the protection of their natural resources.

In light of these developments, it is crucial for the Spanish government to prioritize maritime safety and environmental regulations. The Canary Islands, known for their stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, must be safeguarded from the threats posed by unregulated maritime traffic. The local government’s proactive stance serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration between regional and national authorities in addressing such pressing issues.

Key points

• President Fernando Clavijo raises concerns about the ghost fleet of approximately 1,000 ships.
• Calls for increased governmental transparency and communication regarding maritime traffic.
• Warnings about potential environmental hazards from outdated vessels.
• Local government has formally addressed concerns to the Spanish government.
• Ongoing dialogue emphasizes the importance of maritime safety and environmental protection.