Data Leak Reveals Russian Shadow Fleet Protection by Mercenaries and Spies

A major data leak involving at least 700 Russian oil tankers has revealed new details about how Moscow protects its shadow fleet used to circumvent European Union sanctions. The leaked information, obtained by the Dossier Center NGO, investigative platform Follow the Money, and several German media outlets, shows the extent of Russia's efforts to maintain oil exports through Baltic and North Sea routes despite Western restrictions. The documents provide the first detailed look at the security measures Russia employs to protect these vessels, including the use of mercenaries and intelligence operatives. Russia established this shadow fleet of tankers following EU sanctions imposed after its invasion of Ukraine, allowing the country to continue exporting oil while avoiding direct oversight by European authorities. The revelations highlight an ongoing "silent war" in northern European waters as Russia seeks to maintain its energy revenues while European nations attempt to enforce sanctions designed to limit Moscow's ability to fund its military operations.