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Memri
6 days ago
- Politics
- Memri
Hezb-e-Islami Leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar Discusses Russia's Recognition Of Afghan Taliban, Advocates 'National And Religious Unity Within The Framework Of A Just And Lawful System' In Afghanistan
On July 9, 2025, Daily Shahadat published a Dari-language article by former mujahideen commander and the leader of Hezb-e-Islami Afghanistan Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who is also the publisher of the daily, addressing Russia's recognition of the Afghan Taliban government and its acceptance of the Taliban-appointed ambassador to Moscow. Hekmatyar also publishes Daily Shahadat. In the article – titled "Acceptance Of The Islamic Emirate's Ambassador In Moscow – Political Maneuver Or Political Gamble?" – Gulbuddin Hekmatyar describes Russia's move to recognize the Taliban government variously as a political and diplomatic maneuver, a gamble, and a reaction to developments in Syria and Iran, suggesting it may also be part of a broader deal between Russia and the United States. The article is informative and offers insight into the past half-century of Afghanistan's history and its unique geographical location, which draws global powers to seek to control it in a strategic game. However, the Hezb-e-Islami leader thinks that foreign powers' meddling in Afghanistan can be ended. "If Afghanistan succeeds in realizing its national and religious unity within the framework of a just and lawful system, it will overcome the most dangerous conspiracies and pressure circles of foreign actors," he says. Following are excerpts from the article: "The Coup Against Najib [Dr. Mohammad Najibullah Ahmadzai, President Of Afghanistan Executed By The Taliban In 1996] Was A Joint Plan Of Russian And American Intelligence, And Iranian And Saudi Intelligence Were Also Involved In It" "Acceptance Of The Islamic Emirate's Ambassador In Moscow – Political Maneuver Or Political Gamble? "A Reaction To The Events In Syria And Iran Or A Give-And-Take Deal With America? "In The Light Of Moscow's Policies On Afghanistan From The Founding Of The Soviet Union To Today "Moscow, since the time of Peter the Great – when it emerged as a regional power – has always pursued the expansion of Russian influence toward the south and access to warm waters. "In this regard, Afghanistan, due to its sensitive geopolitical position, was considered one of the areas of interest to Russia. The expansionist policies of Peter the Great laid the groundwork for the (rivalry between Russia and Britain) in Afghanistan. This rivalry later turned into the Great Game in the 19th century, and Afghanistan was accepted as a (buffer) between Russia and Britain. "After the establishment of the Soviet Union and when it occupied the regions of Central Asia and the Caucasus and reached the borders of Afghanistan, this country gained greater importance. Until today, throughout all this time, it has had an active presence in the affairs of our country. As the Soviet Union, at one time, it competed with Great Britain over the occupation of Afghanistan, and at another time with the United States of America. "At one point, against the first Taliban government, it, together with India, Iran, Israel, France, Britain, and America – supported the [anti-Taliban] Northern Alliance, which included the Parcham Party, militias from the Soviet occupation era, Shura-e-Nazar, Jamiat, and Shia parties under Iran's influence. It provided them with weapons and printed Afghani [currency] for them. "There was also a time when Russia and Iran helped America in the occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq. From 2001 to 2014, a major part of the logistics for NATO and American forces in Afghanistan was carried out through Russian land and airspace, and another part of America's logistics was delivered through Pakistan's land and airspace. Groups affiliated with Moscow and under Tehran's influence, during the 20 years of occupation, were at the service of America. "This coalition was formed when Moscow, due to continuous failures and the financial and human losses in the war in Afghanistan, and the problems that this situation created for it within the Soviet Union, had no choice but to withdraw its forces from our country. It considered the establishment of an Islamic government in Afghanistan a serious threat to its dominance over Central Asia. America and Iran had similar concerns. They jointly decided to unify their positions regarding Afghanistan and to prevent the establishment of a Mujahideen government... "The coup against Najib [Dr. Mohammad Najibullah Ahmadzai, former president of Afghanistan executed by the Taliban in 1996] was a joint plan of Russian and American intelligence, and Iranian and Saudi intelligence were also involved in it..." "Saudi Support Was Cut Off When The Taliban Refused To Hand Over [Saudi National] Osama Bin Laden To Them"; "Saudi Intelligence Chief Turki Al-Faisal Traveled On His Private Jet... To Kabul [But Osama Was Too Powerful For The Taliban To Hand Him Over]" "[During 1996-2001] The first era of the [Islamic] Emirate, from beginning to end, was spent in war against the Northern Alliance. The Hezb-e-Islami did not want to fight the Taliban; it considered such a war neither useful nor in accordance with its military policies. The Alliance benefited from financial, military, and political support from Russia, the United States, India, Iran, France, Britain, and Israel, while the Taliban were supported by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who also recognized their government. "Saudi support was cut off when the Taliban refused to hand over [Saudi national] Osama bin Laden to them. This was despite the fact that a gathering of the Emirate's religious scholars in Kabul asked Osama to leave Afghanistan. The Emirate's foreign minister traveled to Saudi Arabia with the message that they were willing to hand over Osama to the Saudis. "Saudi intelligence chief Turki al-Faisal traveled on his private jet, together with the Taliban foreign minister [Wakil Ahmad] Muttawakil, to Kabul and then Kandahar to take Osama and bring him to Saudi Arabia. But the Taliban were not able to do so, because Osama was so powerful that the Taliban simply were unable to arrest and hand him over to Turki al-Faisal. In fact, in the war against the Alliance, the Taliban were largely indebted to the active role of Osama's loyal fighters, who fought on the front lines in all Taliban battles. "The 9/11 attacks and the refusal to hand over Osama to Saudi Arabia and the United States led America to strike Afghanistan from land and sky – first targeting it with cruise missiles and then bombarding the Taliban centers and strongholds with terrifying B-52 bombers. The Taliban offered no resistance whatsoever; from the day the first American missile was launched toward Afghanistan to the day the Taliban evacuated Kandahar and, through a press conference, surrendered to America and Karzai, a total of five weeks (35 days) passed!" After 9/11 "The U.S. Decision Changed – A Large-Scale Aerial And Ground Assault, With The Participation Of Hired Afghan Fighters Belonging To The Northern Front And Groups Under Iranian Influence, Replaced The Limited And Covert Operation Planned With Russia And Iran [To Replace The Taliban Government]" "Before the United States began its operation to occupy Afghanistan, it had a plan for a joint operation with Russia, in such a way that 17,000 Russian soldiers would participate in the operation, capture Mazar and Takhar, and hand them over to the Northern Alliance. The expenses of this operation were to be paid by the United States. "Akhdar Ibrahimi [aka Lakhdar Brahimi], the special representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Afghanistan, told a group of Afghans in a meeting in Switzerland: Moscow and Washington have a plan for a joint operation; it is better that you get on this train! "Before September 11, 2001, the United States and some Western countries including Russia, Iran, and India were providing intelligence, weapons, and financial support to the United Northern Front [aka Northern Alliance] against the Taliban. In the years 2000–2001, secret meetings were held in Moscow, Dushanbe (Tajikistan), Tehran, and Delhi to coordinate this support. "After the Al-Qaeda attack on America, the U.S. decision changed. A large-scale aerial and ground assault, with the participation of hired Afghan fighters belonging to the Northern Front and groups under Iranian influence, replaced the limited and covert operation planned with Russia and Iran. And the United States was able to launch its operations under the flag of 'the international counter-terrorism coalition' (ISAF)." "Although Pakistan's Role... In Assisting The U.S. In The Occupation Of Afghanistan Was No Less Than That Of Russia And Iran, Due To Its Support For The Taliban, It Was Deprived Of An Active And Significant Presence In The Bonn Negotiations [That Led To Formation Of Post-Taliban Government Headed By Hamid Karzai]" "The United States first overthrew the Taliban government and captured major cities, including Kabul and Kandahar. Then, it convened a meeting in Bonn with the participation of representatives from the United States, Britain, Germany, Iran, and Russia, so that with their consultation and agreement, the future government during the occupation period could be formed. "The share of Russia and Iran in the governments during the occupation period was greater than other countries due to their extensive cooperation in the U.S. occupation of Afghanistan. Although Pakistan's role and contribution in assisting the United States in the occupation of Afghanistan was no less than that of Russia and Iran, due to its support for the Taliban, it was deprived of an active and significant presence in the Bonn negotiations. Former mujahideen commander Gulbuddin Hekmatyar "Britain insisted on the restoration of [former king of Afghanistan Mohammad] Zahir Shah as king, but Iran was sensitive to this, because the restoration of monarchy in Afghanistan would pave the way for the return of Reza Shah Pahlavi in Iran. The replacement of [Burhanuddin] Rabbani, a Tajik, with [Hamid] Karzai, a Pashtun, was also not pleasing to Iran; they preferred Satar Sirat, who was the representative of the deposed king, but did not succeed. The United States considered Karzai suitable to its own liking, and in the Bonn meeting, the final word had to be spoken by the actual victor of Afghanistan – the United States. "Karzai used to refer to Zahir Shah as 'Baba' [father or grandfather] and would bow to kiss his hand. However, in his first presidential term, in the face of the Northern Alliance – and especially [Mohammad Qasim] Fahim, who was his defense minister and later his deputy – he resembled a sparrow in a cage beside a hawk. Even his protection in Arg [the Presidential Palace] was provided by the gunmen of Shura-e Nazar [created by Ahmad Shah Massoud]. "Russia and Iran formed the Jabal Al-Siraj Alliance led by Rabbani against Hezb-e-Islami [led by Gulbuddin Hekmatyar] and supported it for four years with financial, military, intelligence, and propaganda assistance, and supported the fight against the Taliban for five years. Both of them helped the United States in the occupation of Afghanistan and the overthrow of the Taliban government with all their capabilities..." "Russia Abandoned Its Important And Strategic Friend In The Region (Iran) During The Hardest Days And The Dangerous U.S.-Israel Attack, And Aside From Empty Rhetoric, Gave Iran No Help – Neither Did It Provide The S-400 Air Defense System, Nor The SU-35 And SU-57 Fighter Jets – Iran Was Forced To Purchase 40 Chinese J-10 Aircraft" "However, the United States, in its negotiations with the Taliban [in Doha, 2020] and in handing over Kabul to them, did not inform Moscow and Tehran and made a unilateral decision. The reason was its differences with its two former partners on one hand, and their efforts to establish an anti-American front – BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization [SCO] and its expansion – on the other. The founders of this organization are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and these five countries constitute more than 40 percent of the world's population and about 25 percent of the global gross domestic product. "Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates have also joined [BRICS subsequently]. So far, more than 30 countries have expressed their desire to join or cooperate with BRICS. All of these countries want to reduce their dependence on the dollar and the Western financial system. The United States considers any effort to strengthen this organization or join it as hostility toward itself and finds it intolerable. "However, regarding the lack of official recognition of the Taliban government [since it assumed power in August 2021] and how to engage with it, they had a joint position. The events in Syria and later the massive and joint attack by the United States and Israel on Iran [in June 2025] deepened the rift in their relations, and Moscow decided to be the first country to accept the Taliban's ambassador in Moscow and allow the white Taliban flag to replace the previous tricolor flag [of Afghanistan] – perhaps in this way they could lessen the pain that had reached Russia. "It is clear that this is a political game and nothing else – Russia has not changed, nor has its policies and positions regarding Afghanistan. Official recognition or non-recognition of any government has had no effect on its policies in the past, nor will it in the future. "Russia abandoned its important and strategic friend in the region (Iran) during the hardest days and the dangerous U.S.-Israel attack, and aside from empty rhetoric, gave Iran no help – neither did it provide the S-400 air defense system, nor the SU-35 and SU-57 fighter jets. Iran was forced to purchase 40 Chinese J-10 aircraft. Russia's position regarding the U.S. attack on Iran was so passive and vague that some observers and analysts thought perhaps a deal had been made between Moscow and Washington over Iran." "Basically, Russia Has Always Pursued Policies Regarding Afghanistan That Are Based On Its Strategic Goals"; "This Was Part Of An Agreement Between Moscow And Washington During The Dissolution Of The Soviet Union: That Russia Would Withdraw From Eastern Europe But Would Continue Its Active Presence In Central Asia" "Moscow's move [to recognize the Taliban government] led to the issuance of a warrant by the Hague International Court [ICC] for the arrest of the Taliban leader [Mullah Hibbatullah Akhundzada] and Chief Justice [Abdul Hakim Haqqani]. "The United Nations also called it a unilateral decision [by Russia]. The White House, the U.S. State Department, and Congress also reacted, emphasizing their firm rejection of recognizing the Taliban, maintaining sanctions, imposing additional sanctions, and continuing the freeze on Afghanistan's assets in American banks. And [U.S. President Donald] Trump once again said: We handed over the world's most powerful base (Bagram) to China! "Basically, Russia has always pursued policies regarding Afghanistan that are based on its strategic goals. Central Asia was under the complete control of the Soviet Union, and after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the region remained under Moscow's influence. In some countries, such as Tajikistan, power remains to this day in the hands of former KGB members, and in others, they hold the largest share and role in governments. "This was part of an agreement between Moscow and Washington during the dissolution of the Soviet Union: that Russia would withdraw from Eastern Europe but would continue its active presence in Central Asia. At that time, we repeatedly heard from Washington statements such as: Central Asia is the soft underbelly of the Soviet Union; it is facing threats from radical Islamic groups in Afghanistan; the mujahideen government destabilizes the region's stability and security; the withdrawal of Soviet forces from this region is harmful and will have dire consequences! Meaning, America agreed to the continued dominance of Moscow over this region, despite the complete collapse of the Soviet Union! "Likewise, Moscow does not allow Central Asia to connect to the South through Afghanistan, nor for its gas and oil to be transported via this route to the South – thus freeing itself from dependence and reliance on Moscow and its transit path. At any cost, this must be prevented. It would be the height of folly for anyone to think that Russia would easily abandon its strategic objectives merely by accepting the ambassador of the Kabul government in Moscow." "When Hezb-e-Islami Forces Entered Kabul, [Hashemi] Rafsanjani, The Former President Of Iran, Said In His Friday Prayer Sermon: We Will Never Allow Hezb-E-Islami To Rule Over Kabul"; "Pakistan Also Does Not Favor The Establishment Of An Islamic Government Led By A Pashtun And Considers It A Cause For Provoking And Encouraging The Pashtuns Of Pakistan To Separate From Pakistan" "In this regard, Iran also holds a position identical to that of Russia: the transfer of Central Asian gas and oil through Afghanistan to Pakistan and India – two important markets for Iran – is in no way acceptable to it. Iran's opposition to the project for transporting Turkmenistan's gas to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India (TAPI), and the creation of obstacles against it, stems from this very point. Iran has spared no effort to prevent the implementation of this project, and one of the main reasons behind its massive investments in the continuation of insecurity and war in Afghanistan has been exactly this. "Furthermore, a majority Pashtun and Sunni government in Afghanistan is intolerable for Iran. When Hezb-e-Islami forces entered Kabul, [Hashemi] Rafsanjani, the former president of Iran, said in his Friday prayer sermon: We will never allow Hezb-e-Islami to rule over Kabul. Iran opposes U.S.-backed TAPI gas pipeline, while U.S. opposes Iran-Pakistan-India pipeline "Pakistan also does not favor the establishment of an Islamic government led by a Pashtun and considers it a cause for provoking and encouraging the Pashtuns of Pakistan to separate from Pakistan and join Afghanistan. For this very reason, it preferred non-Pashtuns belonging to ethnic minorities, such as Mojaddedi [Sibghatullah Mojaddedi, former President of Afghanistan] and [Burhanuddin] Rabbani, for the presidency. "One of the heads of Pakistan's ISI [Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistani military], who was known for being propagandistic, wrote in his analytical report to Pakistan's decision-making authorities: A government led by a Pashtun in Kabul is not in Pakistan's interest. When the forces of Hezb-e-Islami entered Kabul, this same general, in a meeting with the leaders of the Peshawar-based factions [of the Taliban], said: Pakistan will never allow Hekmatyar to rule Kabul. One of them said to him: Please, General Sahib, do it." "As Long As Afghanistan Lacks A Government Based On The Will Of The Majority Of The People And A Strong Consultative System, It Will Remain A Toy For External Competition – Neither Accepting Political Representatives From This Side Nor From That Side, Nor Financial Aid, Nor Diplomatic Maneuvers, Will Replace True Legitimacy" "The truth is this: As long as Afghanistan lacks a government based on the will of the majority of the people and a strong consultative system, it will remain a toy for external competition – neither accepting political representatives from this side nor from that side, nor financial aid, nor diplomatic maneuvers, will replace true legitimacy. If Afghanistan succeeds in realizing its national and religious unity within the framework of a just and lawful system, it will overcome the most dangerous conspiracies and pressure circles of foreign actors. "We also believe that as long as diplomatic and political relations among the countries of the world are not based on sound principles and genuine justice, and as long as unhealthy rivalries, reprehensible hypocrisy, and malicious intent are not set aside, the existing problems between countries will not be resolved, and trust and confidence will not be established. "Some of these sound and justice-based principles are as follows: "i) Non-interference by large and powerful countries in the internal affairs of small and underdeveloped countries. "ii) Non-support for imposed, non-national, non-popular, coup-installed, puppet, autocratic governments that lack internal legitimacy. "iii) Severing relations with ethnocentric and racist regimes. "These fundamental conditions must be strictly observed in dealing with any government and system: "1) The country's political and social system must be lawful and supported by the majority of the nation. "2) It must have a shura [council] that genuinely represents the will of the people, as the highest and most authoritative body for all major national decisions. "3) It must possess a constitution accepted by the nation, as a national covenant and guarantor of the individual human rights of every member of society. "However, diplomatic relations and political engagements between countries are currently, in general, based on reprehensible motives and unhealthy political, economic, and military rivalries. No attention is paid to who the counterpart is and what background and characteristics they have – whether they represent their nation and people or a forcibly imposed minority, whether they respect and submit to the will of their people or not. "If it were not so, and if these standards were observed in political relations, we would not witness authoritarian, coup-installed, and individual-centered governments in any country in the world. Such regimes would face severe global isolation, and the space for their survival and continuation would be significantly restricted. "Hekmatyar" Source: (Afghanistan), July 9, 2025.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
Tall ship banned from entering Aberdeen harbour due to Russian captain
More than 50 Tall Ships from around the world are due to arrive in Aberdeen on Friday after racing from Dunkirk. A ship sailing to a Tall Ships Race 2025 has been banned from entering UK waters - due to sanctions against Russian vessels. The TS Shtandart, a replica of an 18th Century flagship of Peter the Great, has been denied entry to Aberdeen Port due to "current national and international legislation". Russian ships are included in UK sanctions to add pressure on Russia to cease actions in Ukraine. More than 50 Tall Ships from around the world are due to arrive in Aberdeen on Friday after racing from Dunkirk. On Tuesday, the Shtandart anchored north of the Summer Isles on the west coast after it was confirmed the ship could not enter Aberdeen. The ship's captain, Vladimir Martus, claimed it had been a "very horrible surprise" to learn he could not enter the North East port. "This ship is now being treated as suspect - based solely on assumptions," he added. Martus said the only connection that he had to Russia was he was born there and that the ship was modelled on a Russian vessel built in the early 1700s. He said he was a tax resident of Germany and that his father was Ukrainian. The captain added he had not been in Russia in over a decade and that he had never supported the war in Ukraine. He claimed the ship did not fall under sanctions as it was a training vessel which was traditionally built - and no longer sailed under the Russian flag. The Shtandart has sailed across Europe since 1999, providing training for young sailors and taking part in maritime festivals, including previous Tall Ship Races. Martus said the decision stranded young trainees and raised "serious concerns" about the "misuse of sanctions, the spirit of international cooperation, and the future of sail training in Europe". The ship started sailing under the Cook Islands colours in June 2024, following advice from French authorities that the Shtandart could enter its ports as long as it no longer sailed under the Russian flag, he said. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. A statement from Sail Training International, the organisers of the Tall Ships Race 2025, said: "Sail Training International confirms that it received communications from the Ports of Aberdeen, Kristiansand and Esbjerg informing us that Shtandart was denied entry into their Ports, due to current national and international legislation. "As a result of this, Sail Training International regrettably cancelled her participation in The Tall Ships Races 2025. "Shtandart had originally entered to take part in Race 3 of The Tall Ships Races between Kristiansand and Esbjerg. "Despite earlier agreement to allow the ship's participation, Kristiansand and Esbjerg's Port Authorities have subsequently confirmed that, in line with current legislation, the ship's entry is denied. "Aberdeen was not a confirmed stop for the ship and Shtandart's captain, Vladimir Martus, was fully aware of the situation." A spokesman for Port of Aberdeen said: "Russian vessels are generally prohibited from entering UK ports due to sanctions imposed in response to the conflict in Ukraine. "These sanctions, implemented under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022, prevent ships owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by designated persons, those connected with Russia, or those flying the Russian flag or registered in Russia, from accessing UK ports. "She was registered as a Russian vessel up until June 2024, thus falls under the ban."
Scotsman
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Ship banned from Aberdeen for Tall Ships Race due to Russian sanctions
Sign up for the daily Trending Today. Get the stories the internet is talking about to your inbox. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A ship on route to the Tall Ships Race 2025 in Aberdeen has been banned from entering the city's port due to sanctions against Russian vessels in British waters. The TS Shtandart, a replica of an 18th Century flagship of Peter the Great, has been denied entry to Aberdeen Port due to 'current national and international legislation'. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Russian ships are included in UK sanctions to add pressure on Russia to cease actions in Ukraine. More than 50 Tall Ships from around the world are due to arrive in Aberdeen on Friday after racing from Dunkirk. On Tuesday, the Shtandart anchored north of the Summer Isles on the west coast after it was confirmed the ship could not enter Aberdeen. READ MORE: Red Arrows to perform over Aberdeen during Tall Ships Races 2025 Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The ship's captain Vladimir Martus claimed it had been a 'very horrible surprise' to learn he could not enter the North East port. 'This ship is now being treated as suspect - based solely on assumptions,' he added. Mr Martus said the only connection that he had to Russia was he was born there and that the ship was modelled on a Russian vessel built in the early 1700s. He said he was a tax resident of Germany and that his father was Ukrainian. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The captain added he had not been in Russia in over a decade and that he had never supported the war in Ukraine. Mr Martus claimed the ship did not fall under sanctions as it was a training vessel which was traditionally built - and no longer sailed under the Russian flag. READ MORE: Deacon Blue and Kaiser Chiefs to headline at Tall Ships Races At present, 22 crew members - aged between 18 and 70 - from 13 countries are on board as it sits off the west coast. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The Shtandart has sailed across Europe since 1999, providing training for young sailors and taking part in maritime festivals, including previous Tall Ship Races. Mr Martus said the decision stranded young trainees and raised 'serious concerns' about the 'misuse of sanctions, the spirit of international cooperation, and the future of sail training in Europe'. The ship started sailing under the Cook Islands colours in June 2024 following advice from French authorities that the Shtandart could enter its ports as long as it no longer sailed under the Russian flag, Mr Martus said. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A statement from Sail Training International, the organisers of the Tall Ships Race 2025, said: 'Sail Training International confirms that it received communications from the Ports of Aberdeen, Kristiansand and Esbjerg informing us that Shtandart was denied entry into their Ports, due to current national and international legislation. 'As a result of this, Sail Training International regrettably cancelled her participation in The Tall Ships Races 2025. 'Shtandart had originally entered to take part in Race 3 of The Tall Ships Races between Kristiansand and Esbjerg. 'Despite earlier agreement to allow the ship's participation, Kristiansand and Esbjerg's Port Authorities have subsequently confirmed that, in line with current legislation, the ship's entry is denied. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Aberdeen was not a confirmed stop for the ship and Shtandart's captain, Vladimir Martus, was fully aware of the situation.' A spokesman for Port of Aberdeen said: 'Russian vessels are generally prohibited from entering UK ports due to sanctions imposed in response to the conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions, implemented under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022, prevent ships owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by designated persons, those connected with Russia, or those flying the Russian flag or registered in Russia, from accessing UK ports.
Scotsman
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Ship banned from Aberdeen for Tall Ships Race due to Russian sanctions
Sign up for the daily Trending Today. Get the stories the internet is talking about to your inbox. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A ship on route to the Tall Ships Race 2025 in Aberdeen has been banned from entering the city's port due to sanctions against Russian vessels in British waters. The TS Shtandart, a replica of an 18th Century flagship of Peter the Great, has been denied entry to Aberdeen Port due to 'current national and international legislation'. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Russian ships are included in UK sanctions to add pressure on Russia to cease actions in Ukraine. More than 50 Tall Ships from around the world are due to arrive in Aberdeen on Friday after racing from Dunkirk. On Tuesday, the Shtandart anchored north of the Summer Isles on the west coast after it was confirmed the ship could not enter Aberdeen. READ MORE: Red Arrows to perform over Aberdeen during Tall Ships Races 2025 Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The ship's captain Vladimir Martus claimed it had been a 'very horrible surprise' to learn he could not enter the North East port. 'This ship is now being treated as suspect - based solely on assumptions,' he added. Mr Martus said the only connection that he had to Russia was he was born there and that the ship was modelled on a Russian vessel built in the early 1700s. He said he was a tax resident of Germany and that his father was Ukrainian. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The captain added he had not been in Russia in over a decade and that he had never supported the war in Ukraine. Mr Martus claimed the ship did not fall under sanctions as it was a training vessel which was traditionally built - and no longer sailed under the Russian flag. READ MORE: Deacon Blue and Kaiser Chiefs to headline at Tall Ships Races At present, 22 crew members - aged between 18 and 70 - from 13 countries are on board as it sits off the west coast. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The Shtandart has sailed across Europe since 1999, providing training for young sailors and taking part in maritime festivals, including previous Tall Ship Races. Mr Martus said the decision stranded young trainees and raised 'serious concerns' about the 'misuse of sanctions, the spirit of international cooperation, and the future of sail training in Europe'. The ship started sailing under the Cook Islands colours in June 2024 following advice from French authorities that the Shtandart could enter its ports as long as it no longer sailed under the Russian flag, Mr Martus said. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A statement from Sail Training International, the organisers of the Tall Ships Race 2025, said: 'Sail Training International confirms that it received communications from the Ports of Aberdeen, Kristiansand and Esbjerg informing us that Shtandart was denied entry into their Ports, due to current national and international legislation. 'As a result of this, Sail Training International regrettably cancelled her participation in The Tall Ships Races 2025. 'Shtandart had originally entered to take part in Race 3 of The Tall Ships Races between Kristiansand and Esbjerg. 'Despite earlier agreement to allow the ship's participation, Kristiansand and Esbjerg's Port Authorities have subsequently confirmed that, in line with current legislation, the ship's entry is denied. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Aberdeen was not a confirmed stop for the ship and Shtandart's captain, Vladimir Martus, was fully aware of the situation.' A spokesman for Port of Aberdeen said: 'Russian vessels are generally prohibited from entering UK ports due to sanctions imposed in response to the conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions, implemented under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022, prevent ships owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by designated persons, those connected with Russia, or those flying the Russian flag or registered in Russia, from accessing UK ports.
Spectator
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Spectator
Spectator Competition: Between the lines
For Competition 3407 you were invited to write about a historical event euphemistic-ally. This challenge was a little vague; Private Eye code was the inspiration but from the tone of the entries it could have been 1066 and All That. The standard was very high, with too many runners-up to name names, and the £25 vouchers go to the following. Life grew rather complex in 1789 when France experienced a regime malfunction. The financially embarrassed commoners, who kept popping their clogs due to nutrition deficiency, took against royals and aristocrats who did not rate highly on political awareness. Paying an unscheduled visit to the Bastille, the monarchy-resistant mob significantly devalued it as a property. Aristocrats decamped from Versailles like small, furry rodents making their way from a foundering vessel, while the royal family, not being the sharpest pencils in the box, were left without a steering mechanism on a waterway formed mostly of sewage. In the ensuing unrest around Paris, many of the upwardly mobile population were considerably downsized by the more republic-minded. Going against conventional wisdom, the royals left it too late to strategically retreat and were forced to cash in their chips with a trip to the rapid disposal unit that made them shorter by a head. Janine Beacham The court of Peter the Great was notable for how Badered everyone, including the Tsar, was, and for his retinue of vertically challenged persons, though Peter himself was something of a ceiling scraper. There was even an official court personage of restricted growth named Iakim Volkov who found himself subject to a spectacular nuptial splicing at the iron whim of his Tsar. All pocket-sized Muscovites were seconded to Saint Petersburg to witness this happy event. These miniatures, having grown up in modest circumstances and consequently unaccustomed to fine dining, became tired and emotional upon becoming squiffy on the abundantly available enlivening beverages. Thereupon finding that they had various artistic differences, these space-efficient individuals sought to resolve them through a frank exchange of views. Unless historians have been economical with the truth, Peter the Great reacted to the resultant fracas by splitting his sides, always relishing a zany antic. Adrian Fry The Early Retirement of William Wallace, 1305 As part of the retirement festivities, Mr Wallace, fashionably undressed, was urged to take an equine Uber to Smithfield, while the public offered loud tributes. Upon arrival, he was granted a performance review – at altitude – then carefully brought back down to receive his enhanced dismemberment package. In a gesture of administrative thoroughness, select personal assets were publicly decommissioned with fire. His abdominal storage was cleared in accordance with Crown compliance standards, contents displayed for transparency. Mr Wallace was subsequently divided into four travel-friendly portions and repurposed as inspirational installations in Newcastle, Berwick, Perth and Stirling. His head was preserved using traditional tar-based methods and promoted to a pointed post on London Bridge in line with the Crown's redeployment policy regarding retired officials. Although Hollywood would later assign him an exclamatory farewell, contemporary sources suggest a quieter, more contemplative tone in his exit statement. Ralph Goldswain Julius Caesar was a nice-ish man, but sometimes prone to doing the full Tarquin Superbus, and a bit too Julian Clary with local soothsayers. They told him to take a half-holiday somewhere like Capri, and pronto monto. 'You're a bit light of future plans,' they told him. 'You'd be better off a bit more procul hinc, and a bit less usque ad finem.' But Caesar was quietly MRGA, and even more Veritas Social – neglecting to imagine that the senators might well have raided their cutlery drawers for something that could take a quick route to the giblet aisle. They unfriended him, all 60 of them, with some searching internal investigations, ones that left him leaking badly next to Pompey's statue. They put the ruby into Rubicon, leaving Brutus, who gave three-way swivels a run for their silver denarii, to spend less time with his family. Bill Greenwell Paris, 1151. Henry Plantagenet, Duke of Normandy, visits the court of much-loved Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine. It is their first meeting, but they soon become close friends. Eleanor is no stranger to the entente cordiale, having already forged rapprochements with Geoffrey of Anjou, Raymond of Poitiers and Marcabru the troubadour, becoming his Muse and the subject of his most celebrated Lays. Entering into top-level negotiations, Henry is curious to learn about the courtly customs of Eleanor's native Aquitaine. She is happy to oblige, introducing him to the traditional technique of gentle grape-pressing. Henry imagines vineyards, corks popping along the Gironde Estuary, surf crashing in the Bay of Biscay. He chivalrously offers to show Eleanor his Norman cider press, and to take her up the Seine Valley. That night, during their detailed strategic summit, she encourages him to extend his increasingly substantial realm across the Channel. She is thinking of England. David Silverman The Third Crusade was one of a series of cultural exchange schemes – the Islamic equivalent was the jihad – in which westerners and those from the Middle East lived in each other's countries for extended periods. Richard the Lionheart, a contact sports enthusiastic with an impressive record of wins when playing away from home, was a keen participant. His return trip was disrupted by hidden surcharges and he went dark until he retweeted a post from Blondel, a lounge singer passing through on a European tour; eventually Richard's exit visa had to be crowdfunded. A believer in hands-off government, he nevertheless intervened on behalf of the Midlands Levelling Up Czar, Robin Hood, on his return, and latterly pursued a redistributive agenda in France where he developed many gated communities. He was eventually skewered by pointed local opposition to a repossession, and retired hurt. His brother, John, proved to be a poor substitute. Nick Syrett No. 3410: All grown up You are invited to submit passages or poems about celebrated characters from children's books in adult life (150 words/16 lines maximum). Please email entries to competition@ by midday on 23 July.
