Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tanker Spotted Near Undersea Power Cable
A Russian vessel under international sanctions made “suspicious” maneuvers near a key undersea power cable connecting Poland and Sweden before being forced to retreat following a military intervention, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on May 21. The incident has sparked concerns about the potential for hybrid threats in the region.
The Polish military intervened after the Russian tanker was spotted making unusual movements near the undersea cable. According to Tusk, the ship sailed away to one of Russia’s ports following the intervention. A Polish survey ship, ORP Heweliusz, is now en route to the scene.
This development comes a day after the European Union formally adopted its 17th package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at curbing hybrid threats and penalizing vessels involved in circumventing existing restrictions. The new measures specifically target nearly 200 ships believed to be part of Moscow’s so-called “shadow fleet” used to transport oil and other cargo in defiance of Western sanctions.
EU Sanctions and Security Concerns in the Baltic Sea
The European Union has imposed fresh sanctions on vessels enabling Russia to bypass restrictions, with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calling the fleet a “direct security threat.” Wadephul emphasized that the EU will not tolerate such activities and will continue to increase patrols and pressure on Russia’s covert shipping operations.
Wadephul also highlighted the impact of the shadow fleet on Ukraine, stating that it moves oil every day that Russia sells around the sanctions. This has significant implications for Ukraine’s economy and security.
Incidents in the Baltic Sea Region
A series of incidents has severed cables and disrupted signals in the Baltic Sea region. While U.S. and European intelligence officials have suggested some of the damage may have been accidental, senior officials argue that repeated disruptions cannot be explained by “poor seamanship” alone.
The increased activity in the region has led to concerns about hybrid threats and the potential for further incidents. The EU’s decision to impose fresh sanctions on Russian vessels is a clear indication of its commitment to addressing these concerns and protecting regional security.
Original Article: ‘Suspicious’ Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tanker spotted near undersea power cable sparks Polish military intervention — Kyivindependent