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Putin ally’s $500 million Russian superyacht sails through Hormuz despite US blockade: Report
BBC review of marine tracking data shows the Nord, a 142-metre yacht linked to sanctioned Russian billionaire Alexey Mordashov, sailed through the Strait of Hormuz from Dubai to Muscat over the weekend despite a US blockade. The voyage occurred as oil markets reacted to Gulf tensions and Russia sought closer ties with Iran, including Putin hosting an Iranian delegation in St. Petersburg.
Why It Matters
The event highlights sanctions evasion risks, the strategic importance of Hormuz for global energy flows, and growing Russia-Iran diplomacy amid wider geopolitical tensions.
Timeline
8 Events
Iran intensifies diplomatic engagement with Russia this week
April 27, 2026
Iran intensified diplomatic engagement with Russia this week as ties were publicly emphasized during discussions in Russia.
Putin hosts Iranian delegation in St. Petersburg
April 27, 2026
Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted an Iranian delegation in St. Petersburg; Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi praised the strategic relationship.
Oil prices rally as Hormuz disruption persists
April 27, 2026
Brent crude rose to about $109 per barrel amid ongoing Gulf shipping disruptions.
Nord arrives at Al Mouj marina, Muscat
April 26, 2026
The yacht arrived at Al Mouj marina in Oman’s capital on Sunday morning.
Nord crosses the Strait of Hormuz
April 26, 2026
Marine Traffic data indicates the Nord crossed the Strait of Hormuz during the weekend.
Nord departs Dubai on Friday night
April 24, 2026
The Nord left Dubai on Friday night to begin its weekend voyage toward Muscat, Oman.
Mordashov sanctioned by UK, US and EU since 2022
2022
Alexey Mordashov has faced sanctions from the United Kingdom, United States and European Union since 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Nord registration linked to Mordashov's wife
2022
Nord was registered in 2022 to a company owned by Alexey Mordashov's wife, according to BBC review.