Ukrainian Investigative Group Unveils New Schemes of ‘Shadow Fleet’: 42 Russian Ships Under New Names and Flags in International Waters
The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence (HUR) has released new data shedding light on the scale of activities conducted by Russia’s so-called ‘shadow fleet.’ According to information obtained from the War&Sanctions website of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, an additional 42 vessels are now associated with this covert maritime network.
These vessels are utilizing fake flags from countries such as Panama, Malawi, Comoros, Guinea, Palau, and others to evade international sanctions and oversight.Among the uncovered assets is an oil storage vessel belonging to the sanctioned company Lukoil, which is actively used in the Caspian Sea region for oil transshipment.
This tactic allows Russia and Iran to bypass restrictions and distribute oil across international waters without proper documentation.
Analysts estimate that over 300 ships worldwide are operating under false flags with forged documents, posing significant security risks and complicating global maritime regulation.Ukrainian authorities emphasize the need for increased inspection and stricter oversight from flag states, IMO, and the international community as a whole.
They advocate for a total ban on servicing or conducting any operations with these vessels to prevent their misuse for illicit activities.
“Flag countries and IMO must tighten control measures, promptly identify offenders, and inform the global community,” the statement urges.Meanwhile, Ukraine’s security agencies point out that under growing sanctions and diplomatic pressure, more nations are canceling or refusing to register ships under their flags, or are ceasing to service vessels involved in sanctions circumvention.
Recently, at least two Russian tankers carrying Russian oil were rerouted from India to other destinations following new US sanctions.
This shift highlights ongoing efforts to adapt to international restrictions and underscores the increasing covert operations in the maritime domain.