Russia may turn 'shadow fleet' into a military tool - Politico

The United States should strengthen its position in maritime transportation. After all, Russia can use the “shadow fleet” for strategic purposes in military conflicts.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to Politico.

According to the publication, since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Russian shadow fleet has grown significantly. It currently consists of vessels that operate outside the official world of shipping. That is why the “shadow fleet” poses a risk to legally operating vessels, coastal states, and the marine environment.

At the same time, it poses an additional threat to NATO members. According to Politico, Russia can use this huge fleet for strategic maritime transportation.

It is noted that ships from the “shadow fleet” do not have proper civil liability insurance and fly the flags of Gabon and other countries with minimal or no maritime experience. Prior to the introduction of price caps and other sanctions, the shadow fleet consisted of several hundred vessels transporting sanctioned goods to and from Iran, Venezuela, and North Korea. But Russia has become extremely dependent on the shadow fleet, and so many officially operating shipowners have suddenly become interested in selling used vessels to Russians.

Author - Dmitriy Levchenko, 16/12/2024