Norway Sanctions Two Russian Fishing Firms Over Espionage Threats
Norway has aligned itself with the European Union’s latest round of sanctions against Russia by listing two major Russian fishing companies—Norebo JSC and Murman Seafood—over their alleged role in state-sponsored surveillance and intelligence operations, The Gaze reports.
The decision, announced Monday by the Norwegian government, supports national security priorities and reflects Oslo’s commitment to coordinated action with allies. The EU originally adopted the listings on May 20 as part of its restrictive measures against Russian hybrid threats, including sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks.
“Recently, we have seen increasingly aggressive Russian hybrid campaigns against allied nations. This trend is expected to continue,” said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, citing concerns about Russian activities targeting critical underwater infrastructure in Norwegian and allied maritime zones.
According to the EU, both companies are involved in a Russian surveillance operation that could facilitate future sabotage in European waters.
Under the sanctions, Norwegian authorities will freeze the assets and funds of the two entities and prohibit any financial interaction with them. Vessels owned or operated by Norebo and Murman Seafood will lose access to Norwegian ports and territorial waters, and fishing licenses in Norway’s economic zone will generally not be granted.
The listings will be legally implemented in Norway under the March 14, 2025 regulation on restrictive measures, aimed at countering destabilizing Russian activities. The sanctions are part of Norway’s broader effort to protect maritime infrastructure and national security, in close cooperation with the EU and NATO allies.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Norwegian defense, intelligence, and security agencies are actively working to deter and prevent espionage and sabotage.
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