Superyacht Linked to Putin Ally Sails Through Blockaded Strait
A superyacht linked to one of President Putin’s key allies has sailed through the Strait of Hormuz. It did so despite the ongoing blockade of the critical shipping channel.The luxury boat is named Nord. It is 142 metres long and has multiple decks. The vessel is linked to sanctioned Russian billionaire Alexei Mordashov.
From Dubai to Muscat
The yacht travelled from Dubai to Muscat, Oman. The journey took place over the weekend. It is one of few private vessels to transit through the strait in recent months.
The strait remains largely blockaded. Iran held high-level talks with Russia this week. The talks focused on the standoff with the US over reopening the strait.
A Critical Waterway
Approximately one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies normally pass through the waterway. The blockade has disrupted global energy markets.The yacht’s transit raises questions about who gets permission to pass and why.
