russia is increasingly using its shadow fleet not only to circumvent international sanctions but also as a potential military tool capable of threatening European security, according to Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation.
The warning follows media reports concerning russian Marshal Vasilevskiy LNG carrier, owned by russian energy giant Gazprom. Estonian border authorities discovered two heavy machine guns aboard the vessel, along with specially prepared firing positions.
Read more: Ukrainian Raid Regiment Targets Four Power Substations Supporting russian Forces in Crimea (Video)
The report also claims that at least half of the personnel recently serving on the ship were current or former members of russia's Federal Security Service, National Guard, or Armed Forces. The composition of the crew goes beyond the requirements of a conventional commercial shipping operation.
These findings indicate a continuing militarization of russia's shadow fleet. Vessels officially engaged in transporting energy resources may also be prepared to perform security or military-related tasks, blurring the distinction between civilian and state-controlled assets.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces say the Polyphemus operation systematically destroyed russian radar sites in Bryansk region, creating a corridor for deep-strike drones.
Read more: Ukraine's SOF Drone Unit Reveals Polyphemus Operation that Opened Air Corridor Toward russia (Video)
