Russian Ally Detains Shadow Fleet Tankers, Deal Blow to Putin’s Global Strategy
A decision in New Delhi is being interpreted by some analysts as a significant blow to the Kremlin’s international strategy. The move, which involves the detention of three tankers linked to what is described as a “shadow fleet” involved in oil exports tied to Rosneft, undermines Moscow’s vision of a “multipolar world” and raises fresh questions about Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.
The detained tankers are part of a larger network of vessels used to circumvent international sanctions against Russia. According to Dialog.UA, Russian economist Vyacheslav Shiryayev wrote that the move signals more than a maritime dispute. In his view, it reflects a broader weakening of Moscow’s position on the global stage.
Strategic Fallout
Shiryayev claims that if the United States draws one of Russia’s key partners into actions targeting the tanker fleet, Moscow faces not only the loss of an ally but a wider geopolitical defeat. He links the development to the Kremlin’s stated aim in Ukraine of reshaping the global order and compelling the West to treat Russia as an equal power.
In his assessment, that objective now appears unattainable, and speculation about President Vladimir Putin’s waning focus on Ukraine takes on new meaning. The detention of the tankers is seen as a significant blow to Moscow’s efforts to maintain its influence in the region.
Mounting Losses
Separately, LETA news agency reported, citing Western intelligence data, that Russian battlefield losses in January exceeded the number of new recruits joining the armed forces. Bloomberg reported that 9,000 fewer people enlisted in January 2026 than the number of troops lost during the same period.
The trend is seen as a worrying sign for Moscow, which has been struggling to maintain its military strength in Ukraine. The detention of the tankers adds to the pressure on Russia’s war effort, already facing significant challenges.
Heavy Cost
Despite Russian claims of progress, analysts at the US-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) assess that Moscow is sustaining heavy casualties for limited territorial gains. CSIS estimates that up to 1.2 million Russian soldiers have been killed, seriously wounded or listed as missing since February 2022.
The combined casualties of both Russian and Ukrainian forces could approach two million by spring, according to CSIS calculations. The think tank also notes that Russian advances have averaged between 15 and 70 metres per day in major offensives, with less than 1.5% of Ukrainian territory captured during that period.
Original Article: Another blow to Putin as Russian ally detains shadow fleet tankers — Dagens