The « Shtandart » and the Iberian Peninsula: press review, summer 2025

In September 2025, the Russian sailing ship Shtandart was at the center of intense media attention and official monitoring across Europe. Maritime authorities in Portugal and Spain repeatedly denied it access to national ports, while European institutions maintained restrictions already in place under sanctions. Several reports noted attempts by the vessel to change its flag, conduct crew transfers at sea, and approach coastal areas through small craft.