Russia’s Shadow Fleet of Over 1,240 Tankers Continues to Circumvent Sanctions
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Russia has created a shadow fleet of more than 1,240 tankers that allows it to circumvent sanctions and continue selling oil. This was reported by the Center for Countering Disinformation under the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.
The Russian Federation’s use of a shadow fleet is not new, but its scale and impact have increased significantly since the invasion. A significant portion of vessels sail under the flags of other countries or without flags at all, often without insurance and technical supervision. This has raised concerns about environmental safety and the potential for accidents and oil spills.
Environmental Disasters Involving the Russian Shadow Fleet
These floating threats have already led to a series of environmental disasters — with oil spills, fires, and marine pollution. The lack of regulation and oversight has created an environment where these vessels can operate without accountability. The consequences are devastating, not only for the environment but also for local communities that rely on these ecosystems.
Earnings from Oil Exports Reach $200 Million Daily
The Central Oil and Gas Commission reported that as of September 2025, the Russian Federation was earning approximately $200 million daily from oil exports, 69% of which was transported by the shadow fleet. This staggering figure highlights the significant role the shadow fleet plays in Russia‘s economy and underscores the need for effective measures to curb its activities.
In conclusion, Russia‘s shadow fleet of over 1,240 tankers continues to pose a significant threat to global efforts to enforce sanctions against the country. The environmental and economic consequences of this activity are far-reaching and require immediate attention from international authorities.
Original Article: The CCD named the number of tankers in the Russian “shadow fleet” — Online