New York, United States - According to Greenpeace Ukraine public Diesel Tanker Tracker, the Agioi Fanendes, a tanker carrying about 40,000 metric tons of Russian diesel, has stopped on its course towards New York and New Jersey.
In response, John Noël, Senior Strategist, Greenpeace International said: "Since its departure from Russia, this diesel carrying tanker has been on a steady course towards New York/New Jersey, its originally signalled destination. Two days ago, it suddenly stopped and is now holding position some 430 nautical miles off the coast, apparently unsure where to discharge its cargo. Every shipment of Russian diesel helps fuel Russia's war machine and threatens to undermine international sanctions. No country should accept Russian diesel tankers as part of a corrupt deal with the White House. The diesel deal with Russia must be terminated and instead more effective and comprehensive sanctions must be applied along with measures to limit fossil fuel dependence and achieve true clean energy security."
After New Jersey Governor Sherrill drew a hard line and warned ports and businesses about accepting Russian fuel [1], Greenpeace USA sent a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul [2] this week urging her to take the same action as New Jersey Governor Sherrill: declare that the diesel shipments are not welcome, and warn port and terminal operators of the legal risks of accepting it. With the tanker now potentially just days away from the harbour, Greenpeace USA is urging the Governor to act.
As of early morning EST on 11 November, the ship was at N39.96 / W64.88, some 430 nautical miles straight east from New Jersey. At its normal speed of 12 knots, it can approach New York Harbour within 36 hours.
