The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia issued a statement today regarding information circulated in the media on a possible circumvention of international sanctions by the tanker “NOSTOS”, currently berthed at the Kulevi Terminal.

“The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia emphasises that the vessel’s registered owner and commercial operator are legal entities duly registered in international registries (Greece). The vessel is covered by international insurance arrangements, including P&I insurance (Bermuda, Norwegian branch), holds valid Hull & Machinery insurance (Greek), and is under the technical supervision of the reputable French classification society Bureau Veritas.

During 2025, the vessel has called at ports in Greece, Morocco, Malta (OPL), Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and the Russian Federation.

At the same time, the vessel, its owner, and its operator are not identified on any applicable sanctions list,” the statement reads.

The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia reiterated that vessel calls to all Georgian ports take place under strict control, in full compliance with international law and national legislation. Port calls are coordinated in advance with the relevant competent authorities and are based on a comprehensive, risk-based assessment designed to identify sanctioned or high-risk vessels and prevent their entry.

“The Agency consistently upholds international standards of maritime safety, security, and environmental protection, and fully observes all applicable sanctions regimes. Georgian ports are not used, and will not be used, including by third states, for the purpose of circumventing international sanctions,” the statement reads.

The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia urged media outlets to exercise professional responsibility and to refrain from disseminating unverified or inaccurate information that could undermine public trust and harm the country’s international reputation.