Kathrine Frich
Many of Russia’s shadow fleet vessels are ageing and poorly maintained.
Many of Russia’s shadow fleet vessels are ageing and poorly maintained.
Russia Accuses UK of Targeting Its Oil Tankers
Russia’s foreign intelligence agency, the SVR, has claimed that British forces are planning attacks on its so-called “shadow fleet.”
These tankers are used to quietly move oil in defiance of international sanctions.
According to the SVR, the UK aims to destroy the ships in a way that looks accidental, to avoid direct blame or open conflict.
Fears Mount Over Possible ‘False Flag’ Operation
Experts say the accusations could be a smokescreen.
Some believe Moscow may be preparing a false flag operation, where it attacks its own ships and blames the West.
This tactic has been linked to previous Russian military actions, including in Chechnya and Ukraine.
SVR Suggests NATO and Ukraine Could Be Involved
The SVR’s report also claims that British intelligence may use help from NATO allies and even Ukrainian special forces to carry out the sabotage.
It warned of a coming “ecological catastrophe” in international waters, though no evidence was provided to support the claim.
Russia’s Tankers Are Already in Poor Condition
Many of Russia’s shadow fleet vessels are ageing and poorly maintained. Experts warn they are barely seaworthy.
If one were to sink by accident, Russia could use it to claim sabotage and respond with military or political action, regardless of the actual cause.
UK Has Previously Warned About the Shadow Fleet
A UK government policy paper in 2024 described Russia’s shadow fleet as a global threat.
It said the ships are often uninsured, unsafe, and used to dodge sanctions.
Britain urged other nations to hold the fleet to international safety and environmental standards.
Tanker Attacks in Russian Ports Add to Suspicion
Since early 2025, the number of oil barrels moved by the shadow fleet has dropped from 50 million to 20 million a month.
This decline follows a series of unexplained attacks on tankers in Russian ports. Many of these incidents have been blamed on Ukraine.
Report May Be Meant to Manage Future Blame
Dr. Sidharth Kaushal of RUSI suggested the report may be pre-emptive.
If a Russian tanker fails or sinks, the Kremlin can point to this warning and blame the West.
This would give them political cover to restrict shipping or escalate tensions at sea.
