ocean viking

• Germany

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has defended private sea rescue in the Mediterranean against criticism, calling it a “humanitarian imperative.” She also said, among other things, that it wasn’t always the “poorest and weakest” who were coming to Europe. Meanwhile, the over 500 rescued migrants aboard NGO vessels Ocean Viking and Open Arms are still in limbo.

• Italy
• Libya
• Malta

After the fourth rescue in four days, NGO rescue ship Ocean Viking now has over 350 migrants on board waiting for a safe harbor - but the vessel is only equipped to carry 200 to 250 people. Italy and Malta continue to deny entry into their ports.