The number of tankers belonging to Russia’s so-called shadow fleet has nearly tripled since the beginning of 2022, rising from fewer than 100 to approximately 300-600 vessels by early 2025. This is evidenced by data from analytical companies, which note the discrepancies in estimates due to various counting methodologies. About 40% of these vessels were purchased from sellers in EU countries, with most of them nearing the end of their operational lifespan or already exceeding it.
This is reported by Business • Media
European countries intensify efforts against Russia’s shadow fleet
In response to the increase in the shadow fleet, European countries are implementing additional security measures. In particular, Sweden and Denmark, following Germany’s example, have introduced mandatory requirements for insurance documentation for all tankers passing through their territorial waters in the Baltic Sea. In the absence of proper insurance, such vessels may be added to the blacklists of the USA, UK, and EU, significantly complicating their future operations.
Suspicions regarding the use of the shadow fleet for subversive activities
Concerns are growing in the Baltic states that the Russian Federation is using the shadow fleet not only to circumvent sanctions but also for potential subversive activities. This is particularly relevant to the possible damage to underwater infrastructure, including communication cables, which could pose an additional threat to the region.
At the same time, the process of strengthening sanctions against Russia is facing obstacles at the EU level. Slovakia has once again blocked the adoption of the 18th sanctions package against Russia at the level of EU member state ambassadors. The main reason is disagreement with the RePowerEU initiative, which proposes a complete halt to Russian natural gas supplies to the EU by January 1, 2028.
The number of tankers in Russia’s ‘shadow’ fleet has increased from fewer than 100 tankers at the beginning of 2022 to approximately 300-600 by early 2025, depending on the counting method, according to a report by Dryad Global.