The Russian master of the Caffa was arrested for presenting false papers but was released a week ago because prosecutors could not prove he knowingly presented false papers, according to research. The Swedish Transport Agency issued a detention order for the Caffa due to safety deficiencies, research reports. The Caffa was empty and bound for Russia at the time of detention, but had transported grain in the past.
Ukraine requested Israel to detain vessels carrying grain from occupied areas, including the Abinsk and Panormitis, research indicates. The Abinsk was permitted to unload in Haifa between April 12 and 14, 2024, despite Ukraine's warnings. Ukraine issued an arrest warrant for the Abinsk and requested Israeli assistance, but Israel said Ukraine had not provided detailed information.
A significant portion of the vessels operating on these routes are subject to restrictions imposed by Ukraine, the EU, and the US: Matros Pozynich, Severniy Proect, Damas Wave, Novaya Zemlya; Fedor, Princess Eva, Mys Zhelaniya, Zaid; Victoria K, Victoria V, Don, Asomatos.
The Israel Grain Importers Association stated that the Russian supplier of the wheat shipment on the Panormitis would be required to find an alternative destination. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that unverified claims do not constitute legal proof and that judicial processes require substantiated facts. Ukraine's representative for sanctions policy, Vlasiuk, said that a vessel's sanctioned status alone does not stop sales, and that Russia adapts by changing routes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that his administration is finalizing punitive measures targeting entities involved in the disputed grain trade. ua, Vlasiuk described that after Egypt refused to accept the Zaid due to EU sanctions, the vessel was redirected to Turkey, while Egypt continued to accept other shipments from Mariupol. Vlasiuk also noted that Russia is adapting to restrictions by changing routes and redeploying its fleet, and that sanctions must block not only ships but any purchase of such grain.
After Egypt refused to accept the Zaid due to EU sanctions, the vessel was simply redirected to Turkey. At the same time, Egypt itself continued to accept other shipments, particularly from Mariupol, including voyages by sanctioned vessels.
Ultimately, Russia is adapting to the restrictions: changing routes and redeploying its fleet, but not stopping exports. That is why sanctions must block not only the ships but any purchase of such grain.