Denied Entry in Turkey, A Voyage of Suffering and Death: The Spiridon II Live Export Tragedy

The Spiridon II livestock carrier became a symbol of suffering earlier this year after nearly 340 cattle perished during a voyage that stretched on for weeks. Denied entry at several ports, including Turkey, the vessel remained stranded at sea while conditions on board deteriorated rapidly. Calves were born mid-journey, many unable to survive; animals collapsed in overcrowded pens; and mothers struggled to nurse their young. The tragedy has drawn international scrutiny, exposing the inherent cruelty of the live export trade, a system that treats sentient beings as cargo, vulnerable to delays, outdated vessels, and profit-driven decisions.