Putin's superyacht 'Graceful' sighted off Danish coast

The Russian luxury yacht 'Graceful,' reportedly belonging to President Vladimir Putin, has been sighted near the Danish coast, marking its first appearance on radar in nearly four years. The yacht was last tracked in August 2022, about six months after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, when its AIS (Automatic Identification System) transmitter was deactivated.

According to Danish broadcaster DR, the yacht was observed traveling along Denmark's northern coast on Monday. Danish and German coast guards, along with Russian warships, were reportedly escorting the vessel through Danish waters. The Danish armed forces confirmed they routinely monitor ships, including foreign state vessels, transiting Danish straits and territorial waters.

Data from Marinetraffic.com indicated the 'Graceful' was visible on Monday. However, by Monday evening, the yacht's signal reportedly ceased transmitting again, according to the same tracking service. The yacht was previously seen in 2015, and its reappearance has drawn attention due to its alleged owner and the ongoing international sanctions against Russia.

The vessel's movements and the presence of escort ships raise questions about its purpose and the geopolitical context surrounding its journey through European waters.

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The armed forces routinely monitor ships, including foreign state vessels, that transit the Danish straits and territorial waters with the capacities intended for this.