Russian Oil Tanker Drifts Off Almeria Coast

A Mozambique-flagged oil tanker, the Chariot Tide, is currently drifting off the coast of Almería, Spain, after experiencing a loss of steering in the Strait of Gibraltar. Spanish maritime rescue has been monitoring the vessel.

Environmental organizations have voiced significant concerns, warning that a potential oil spill could cause irreparable damage to marine life and the Andalusian coast's tourism industry. The tanker is part of Russia's "dark fleet," a collection of older ships used to bypass sanctions, often operating with dubious insurance and a disregard for safety protocols.

The Strait of Gibraltar, a critical global shipping lane, faces an elevated risk of environmental disaster due to the presence of such vessels. A major incident involving the Chariot Tide could release hundreds of thousands of barrels into sensitive waters, polluting coastal areas of both Spain and Morocco. Spanish authorities are tracking the tanker but have not announced specific intervention measures.