It tells the tale of how, despite their purported breakup, Europe and Russia are still caught in a strained relationship based on economic reliance. It tells the unsettling reality of what really happened to cause the cost of living crisis to cease.
It is, however, first and foremost, the tale of a ship, a very unique ship.
You might not find the Yakov Gakkel all that noteworthy if you ever spot it sailing across the English Channel or the Irish Sea (I saw it in the Channel, but it was heading north at the time this was written, around 20 miles off the shore of Anglesey).
Upon initial observation, it appears similar to numerous other sizable, unremarkable tankers and cargo ships that traverse these coastlines. Its massive blue prow, which rises high out of the water and terminates 50 meters further back to its surprisingly angular stern, dominates its profile.
However, the first hint as to why the Yakov Gakkel is so unique is found in its somewhat peculiar design, which consists entirely of hull and very little deck.
