Update: Movement of the Russian Cargo Vessel S. Kuznetsov

The Russian-flagged general cargo vessel S. Kuznetsov (IMO 9210359), built in 2001, has recently departed the port of Tartus after a three-day stopover.

Notably, the vessel was moored in the commercial section of the Syrian port, rather than in the area previously used by the Russian Navy.

According to AIS data, S. Kuznetsov is now underway in the Eastern Mediterranean at a speed of approximately 11 knots. While its AIS destination remains listed as “For Order,” current movement patterns suggest a potential course toward the Black Sea.

At this stage, however, the vessel’s final destination and cargo remain unconfirmed.

This development comes amid ongoing monitoring of Russian commercial and auxiliary maritime traffic in the Eastern Mediterranean. Analysts continue to assess the purpose of such voyages, particularly those involving extended port calls in Syria and subsequent northbound movements that could indicate logistical or resupply activity linked to regional operations.