As noted, the ship was loaded in Syria and sailed with a Russian Navy escort. It is expected to unload in the city of Novorossiysk, Russia, a base heavily involved in the invasion of Ukraine.

Read also: Russia blocks operation of grain corridor and transports military cargo on merchant ships, says Ukraine

The Bosporus Straits, which run through Istanbul and are Turkish sovereign waters, is closed to warships due to the war in Ukraine. Russia is instead using auxiliaries and merchant vessels to move war supplies through the straits.

According to Naval News, the Sparta IV is one of four ships owned by SC South LLC, a Russian shipping company which is involved in transporting military equipment. The company and the ship have been sanctioned by the U.S. government under Specially Designated Nationals list (SDN) following the invasion of Ukraine.

Russian media previously reported that the ship arrived in the city of Tartus in Syria carrying humanitarian aid. This followed the devastating earthquake on Feb. 6. The aid was carried in shipping containers on deck. After that, the vessel was loaded in the Russian naval base at Tartus.

Read also: Russia forming 'shadow fleet' to circumvent oil sanctions — FT

Prior to entering the Bosporus, the ship was observed on March 1, 2023, sailing in the Eastern Mediterranean, away from Tartus. It appeared to be escorted by a Russian Navy Project 20380 Steregushchiy class missile corvette.

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine