Military Personnel Aboard Shadow Fleet Tankers
Russian military personnel and mercenaries have begun appearing on shadow fleet tankers that transport Russian oil. Their role is to monitor crew loyalty and prevent potential ship seizures. This development gained urgency following a March 3rd attack on the tanker Arctic Metagaz near Malta, which prompted vessels carrying sanctioned Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to alter their routes. The shadow fleet is a network of older tankers used to circumvent Western sanctions on Russian energy exports.
Seventeen individuals lacking maritime qualifications have been identified among the crews of these tankers. Of these, twelve are suspected of having links to mercenary groups or Russian security services. Officially, they are listed as technical staff or security guards. Representatives from several Western military and civilian intelligence agencies, including Finland's Security and Intelligence Service (Supo), have confirmed the presence of these security teams on board the vessels.
Route Changes and Heightened Risks for Russian Vessels
Following the attack on the Arctic Metagaz tanker, which was carrying sanctioned Russian LNG, Russian shadow fleet vessels have started avoiding the Mediterranean Sea. At least three ships carrying sanctioned Russian LNG changed their routes after the incident. The Arctic Metagaz, en route from Murmansk, was reportedly attacked by Ukrainian drones launched from the coast of Libya. The crew was evacuated, and satellite imagery indicates the vessel sustained significant damage.
This situation highlights the growing risks for Russian oil and gas carriers, particularly within the context of heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The presence of military personnel on tankers points to increased threats to commercial shipping operations and underscores Russia's perceived need to secure its assets in international waters. These route diversions could impact global energy supplies and oil prices as shippers seek to avoid high-risk zones.