The Danish government faces a potential clash with international law if it blocks tankers carrying Russian oil from passing through its straits. This concern was raised by the Russian Ambassador to the Kingdom, Vladimir Barbin, speaking to reporters through the Russian news agency, RIA News.
Barbin commented on material published by the British newspaper Financial Times, which describes plans by Danish leadership to begin inspecting and potentially blocking vessels transporting fuel from the Russian Federation. Three EU insiders familiar with the negotiation process reportedly provided the information to the Financial Times.
“Denmark, as a major maritime nation, must uphold the freedom of navigation and adhere to international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea”, Barbin stated.
The ambassador stressed that international law forbids hindering the passage of ships through the Danish Straits, which include the Baltic route. This prohibition, he noted, also covers tankers carrying Russian oil.
According to Barbin, these straits are essential channels for international transport. Therefore, any inspections of ships passing through them must be conducted in full compliance with international law.
“The Russian side believes Copenhagen understands this principle”, Barbin added.
Earlier remarks from Denmark suggested that the kingdom finds itself in a difficult position due to agreements reached by its autonomous regions with the Russian Federation. In context, observers point to the Baltic corridor as a critical artery for trade and energy flows, where legal interpretations and alliance considerations intersect with geopolitical strategy.
Analysts note that the 1982 UNCLOS establishes a framework for freedoms of navigation and for lawful transit passage through straits used for international navigation. They emphasize that states must balance security measures with the obligations to permit innocent passage and comply with established procedures for inspections. The current debate in Denmark and among EU partners reflects broader tensions over sanctions, energy security, and the rules-based order that governs maritime routes in and around the Baltic Sea.
As discussions unfold, all parties are urged to weigh the potential economic impact on European markets, the reliability of supply chains, and the long-term implications for international law. The situation remains fluid, with official positions likely to evolve as EU negotiations continue and as Baltic Sea governance arrangements are reviewed in light of shifting geopolitical realities. [Citation: Financial Times report, corroborated by EU officials]