Sweden to Transfer Seized Russian Cargo Ship to Ukraine Over Alleged Stolen Grain

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Stockholm:Sweden's Supreme Court has cleared the way for the transfer of a seized Russian cargo ship to Ukraine after dismissing an appeal by its owner, in a case linked to allegations of transporting grain taken from occupied Ukrainian territory.

The ruling allows Ukraine to take possession of the 96-metre cargo vessel Caffa, which was seized by Swedish authorities in March while sailing under a false Guinean flag. The ship had been heading to Russia when it was intercepted off Sweden's southern coast following a request from Ukrainian investigators.

Ukraine suspects the vessel was part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" used to evade Western sanctions. Officials allege the ship had previously carried grain taken from occupied areas of Ukraine, including a shipment from Crimea that was later delivered to Syria.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga welcomed the decision, calling it an important step towards accountability. Swedish media reported it is the first time a court has ordered a Russian ship suspected of transporting stolen Ukrainian grain to be handed over to Ukraine.

Pic Credit: AFP