Ukraine Strikes Russian Shadow Fleet Tankers in Sea of Azov
The Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces (SBS) struck nine tankers belonging to Russia‘s so-called “shadow fleet” in the Sea of Azov during an overnight operation on July 8, according to the commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert “Madyar” Brovdi. This marks a significant escalation in Ukraine‘s campaign against Russian logistics and supply chains.
The Sea of Azov is a key supply route for Russian forces fighting in Crimea and other occupied parts of southern Ukraine. The region has been a focal point of the conflict, with Ukraine seeking to disrupt Russia‘s ability to resupply its military presence in the area.
Ukrainian Drone Strategy Intensifies Pressure on Russia
Ukraine‘s drone strategy in attacking oil and gas industries and now the shadow fleet is Kyiv’s way of grinding down Russia‘s war machine. The SBS has been targeting Russian logistics and supply chains, aiming to weaken Russia’s ability to support its military operations in Ukraine.
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) notes that Ukraine‘s attacks on the shadow fleet are part of a broader strategy to pressure sanctions-busting shippers and insurers at a time when Russian oil exports are already under strain. This campaign aims to disrupt Russia‘s ability to generate revenue from its energy exports, which is critical to funding its war efforts.
Western Nations Join Efforts Against Russian Shadow Fleet
Western nations have escalated their own tactics against these vessels. Armed forces from the U.K., supported by allies like France, have conducted high-profile operations to board, seize, and detain vessels suspected of transporting Russian oil outside international sanctions regimes.
The Cameroon-flagged Smurtos is just one example of a vessel that has been targeted in this campaign. These efforts aim to further weaken Russia‘s ability to circumvent international sanctions and fund its war efforts through illegal means.
Ukraine Seeks to Isolate Crimea
Ukraine‘s goal is to ensure that Crimea ceases to be a rear base for the entire southern group of Russian forces. The Chairman of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center (USCC) and a military and political analyst specializing in national security, defense policy, and Russian strategy, Serhii Kuzan, notes that this is about weakening the enemy’s capabilities, essentially striking at their logistics.
The situation in Crimea is escalating, with Ukraine seeking to further isolate the peninsula and disrupt Russia‘s ability to use it as a base of operations. The military is taking resources and diverting them from the civilian population — and, in effect, diverting them to themselves, according to Kuzan.
Conclusion
Ukraine‘s campaign against Russian logistics and supply chains continues to intensify, with the SBS striking 19 shadow fleet tankers in just 72 hours. This effort aims to weaken Russia‘s ability to support its military operations in Ukraine and isolate Crimea from international supplies. As Ukraine seeks to further disrupt Russia’s war efforts, it remains to be seen how Moscow will respond to these escalating attacks.
Original Article: ‘Moscow Will Fall’: Ukraine Just Hit 19 of Russia’s Shadow Fleet Tankers in 72 Hours to Choke Off Crimea — Nationalsecurityjournal