Russian Diesel Tankers Change Course Amid US Deal Uncertainty

Politics · First reported 6 Nov, 13:38 · Updated 14:04

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center / Jonny Kim · Public domain

Several tankers carrying Russian diesel that had declared US destinations reportedly changed course. While Russian officials said the shipments remained on track or declined to disclose commercial details, US state officials warned companies against handling the fuel.

Two tankers that reportedly left Primorsk for the US east coast changed course, with one heading toward Brazil and another into the Mediterranean, according to shipping data cited by DW.
A third vessel was still in the North Atlantic but had changed its destination from New York to the unspecified designation “for orders.”
Kirill Dmitriev said the tankers remained on course for the US; Dmitry Peskov called shipment details a commercial matter and said the diesel would find buyers.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill urged port and terminal operators to reject the fuel, while Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal warned shipping companies about violating sanctions.
Le Monde says US companies have become reluctant to buy the diesel over reputational and sanctions risks; France 24 describes the tankers’ route changes as a setback for the deal.

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Key facts

Tankers reported to have changed course: Two, according to DW’s account of shipping data.
Reported routes: One toward Brazil; one into the Mediterranean.
Third vessel: In the North Atlantic; destination changed from New York to “for orders.”
Russian officials’ position: Dmitriev said the tankers remained on course; Peskov said shipment details were commercial.