WILLEMSTAD – Despite international sanctions, dozens of Russian vessels continue to operate under the flags of Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten. This was revealed by figures from the Royal Association of Dutch Shipowners (KVNR).

In August, 59 ships were identified sailing under fraudulent flags, even though Aruba and Sint Maarten do not officially have shipping registries. According to the KVNR and the Curaçao Security Service (VDC), these so-called “shadow fleets” use falsified registration papers to circumvent sanctions and international safety regulations.

The vessels in question are often older oil tankers in questionable condition, posing risks to both safety and the environment. Curaçaoan authorities have asked foreign ports to take action against these ships and pursue criminal prosecution wherever possible.

The KVNR stressed that this type of fraud damages the international reputation of both the Netherlands and Curaçao, which do operate official shipping registries.