Spain criticized for letting Russian fleet refuel in Ceuta

Spain has come under pressure from other EU countries and NATO officials after it allowed the Russian carrier strike group centered around carrier-cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov to refuel in Ceuta, Spain.

The fleet was expected to enter the Spanish port on the north coast of Africa in the morning of October 26.

It is not clear yet, however, whether the ships made the port call as Spanish media reported late on October 25 that the Spanish foreign ministry was reviewing a permit that allowed the Russian Navy flotilla to resupply.

It was reported that Spain would seek further clarification from Russia about the purpose and the destination of the ships.

Spain was criticized in the past for allowing Russian ships to resupply in the country’s ports. What caused a media outcry this time was the fact that the ships are headed towards the coast of Syria where they will take part in the Syrian war.

Speaking at a press conference on October 25, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said the ships could be used as a platform for increased airstrikes against civilians in Aleppo.