Norway seizes Russian cruise ship in the Arctic

Norwegian authorities have impounded a Russian-owned cruise ship located in Arctic waters, Ukraine's state energy group Naftogaz announced on Wednesday.

The seizure was carried out at Naftogaz's own request. The company describes the step as an attempt to partially recover losses linked to assets that Russia had previously confiscated from it.

Background

Naftogaz is one of Ukraine's largest state-owned energy companies, and its assets — including some in occupied territories or areas under Russian control — have repeatedly become the subject of disputes and seizures since the start of the war. Norway's action signals a willingness to cooperate with Ukrainian claims against Russian-owned property within Norwegian jurisdiction.

Further details, including the ship's name, its value, or what will happen to it next, have not yet been made public.