Ukraine’s President Warns of Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Sabotage and Intelligence Operations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is using its “shadow fleet” of tankers to carry out sabotage and intelligence operations across northern Europe, in addition to circumventing international oil sanctions. The warning comes after a briefing by Lt. Gen. Oleh Ivaschenko, head of Ukraine‘s Foreign Intelligence Service.
According to Zelenskyy, the Russian tankers are not only being used to make money from the war but also for intelligence gathering and sabotage purposes. He emphasized that it is possible to put a stop to this activity and urged Europe to mount a “much stronger” response to Russian interference.
Zelenskyy’s comments follow earlier accusations that Russia has deployed its tankers to launch and control drones targeting European countries. On October 2, Germany’s Der Spiegel reported that investigators were probing a possible link between a suspicious Russian cargo ship and a swarm of drones spotted over Schleswig-Holstein in late September.
Denmark Warns of Aggressive Russian Warship Behavior
Denmark’s defense intelligence has warned that Russian warships have repeatedly behaved aggressively in Danish straits connecting the Baltic and North seas. Incidents included setting collision courses, pointing weapons at Danish vessels and helicopters, and disrupting navigation systems, according to the service.
The warning comes as tensions between Russia and Europe continue to escalate. The use of drones and aggressive naval behavior by Russian forces has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and the need for a unified European response.
Ukraine’s Intelligence Services Collaborate with International Partners
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine‘s intelligence services are working closely with international partners, providing them with all the relevant information they gather. He urged Europe to take a more proactive approach in responding to Russian interference, stating that “it’s absolutely possible to put a stop to this.”
The warning from Zelenskyy highlights the need for increased cooperation and coordination between European countries to address the growing threat posed by Russia‘s shadow fleet and other forms of aggression.
Conclusion
In light of these developments, it is crucial for European nations to strengthen their defenses and responses to Russian activities in the region.
Original Article: Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ used for sabotage and intelligence operations, Zelenskyy says — Nv