Story perspectives

Norway evacuates 69 Russians from seized Professor Molchanov

9/9/2026

Summary

Norway Evacuates

Norwegian authorities evacuated 69 Russian passengers and crew from the research vessel Professor Molchanov to Murmansk.
The group crossed the Russian-Norwegian border on September 8, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Norway seized the Professor Molchanov in Svalbard on September 2 after Ukrainian companies requested it.
A Norwegian court ordered the seizure to enforce an arbitration award over Naftogaz’s Crimea assets.
The Professor Molchanov remains in Svalbard while legal proceedings over the seizure continue.

Summary

Naftogaz Seeks Compensation

Naftogaz seeks $4.22 billion plus interest and legal costs from Russia for seized Crimea assets.
Naftogaz plans to sell the seized Professor Molchanov vessel to satisfy its compensation claim.
Norwegian courts postponed a final decision, giving Russia time to challenge the vessel seizure.
Acting CEO Sergii Fedorenko said Naftogaz will pursue Russian assets in other jurisdictions.
Russian firms receive sanctions relief to import food and essential goods into Barentsburg settlement.

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Norway Evacuates

Norwegian authorities evacuated 69 Russian passengers and crew from the research vessel Professor Molchanov to Murmansk.
The group crossed the Russian-Norwegian border on September 8, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Norway seized the Professor Molchanov in Svalbard on September 2 after Ukrainian companies requested it.
A Norwegian court ordered the seizure to enforce an arbitration award over Naftogaz’s Crimea assets.
The Professor Molchanov remains in Svalbard while legal proceedings over the seizure continue.

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