Russian tanker stranded in Tangier: the last-chance operation to avoid an oil spill

The Chariot Tide, a 195-meter-long tanker flying the Mozambican flag, was immobilized in Moroccan-controlled waters. This vessel is considered by specialists as "one of the best examples of what a zombie tanker or ghost tanker is" as it is on the sanction lists of the European Union and the United Kingdom. With "a casualty rate of 42%", the ship is described as an "environmental time bomb" carrying a cargo of 425,000 barrels of Russian refined products.

The tanker found itself "adrift, apparently without maneuver (NUC, Not Under Command), in the southern lane of the TSS of the Strait of Gibraltar". This situation prompted Spain to position the rescue vessel Luz de Mar as reinforcement, although it remains at a distance to avoid legal complications. Direct intervention by the Spanish authorities could lead to the seizure of the vessel for violation of international sanctions. Before the arrival of Moroccan assistance, the tanker was displaying a speed of only 0.6 knots and its status was officially indicated as "drifting".

The authorities now have to decide whether the VB Spartel will direct the vessel to Tanger Med or to an area outside the traffic lanes. Some observers suspect that the oil products on board could attempt to enter the European market "via Gibraltar, Algeciras or supply barges, under Moroccan export documentation". The operation continues under close surveillance in order to eliminate any risk of marine pollution and restore fluidity of traffic in this strategic area.