Despite international sanctions, dozens of Russian vessels continue to operate under the flags of Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten, according to figures from the Royal Association of Dutch Shipowners (KVNR).
In August, authorities identified 59 ships sailing under fraudulent flags, even though Aruba and Sint Maarten do not officially maintain shipping registries. The KVNR and the Curaçao Security Service (VDC) explained that these “shadow fleets” rely on falsified registration papers to evade sanctions and bypass international safety regulations.
Most of the vessels involved are older oil tankers in poor condition, raising concerns about maritime safety and environmental risks. Curaçaoan authorities have urged foreign ports to take measures against such ships and pursue criminal prosecution when possible.
The KVNR stressed that this form of fraud damages the international reputation of the Netherlands and Curaçao, both of which operate legitimate shipping registries, and undermines efforts to maintain transparency and safety in global shipping.
