Sweden has fulfilled Ukraine's request
On August 5, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha posted on the social platform X, stating that a Swedish court ruled to transfer the Russian shadow fleet vessel "Kafa" to Ukraine. Ukrainian investigations determined that the ship had illegally exported grain from the occupied Sevastopol.
"I welcome the ruling by Sweden's Supreme Court supporting the seizure and transfer of the 'Kafa.' This landmark decision sets an important precedent, demonstrating that cooperation between law enforcement, prosecutors, and an independent and impartial judiciary can effectively enforce accountability. We will continue to combat Russia’s shadow fleet and cut off its channels for profiting from war."
Yekaterina Yalysko, a journalist with the "Center for Peacebuilders" Crimea Maritime Project, explained that Ukrainian investigative authorities had identified the "Kafa" as early as June 2025. "The vessel changed ownership, management, and flag; it arrived in occupied Sevastopol at the end of June. We noticed it had just switched its flag—its entry in the vessel registry indicated a false Guinean nationality."
Ukraine initiated a criminal investigation over this matter and imposed sanctions on the "Kafa" in November 2025. After the ship docked in Sweden, Ukrainian authorities formally applied for its seizure.
The Ukrainian Security Service's Crimea Directorate stated that they have handed over the complete criminal case file to Swedish authorities, providing evidence regarding the vessel’s route and violations such as unauthorized use of Crimea’s closed ports, along with legal grounds for judicial proceedings.
In early June this year, the Swedish court accepted Ukraine’s request and officially seized the vessel.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872738429048916/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.