Russia is using a growing number of so-called "shadow fleet" tankers to move its oil across the world.
These ships operate outside regular international regulations, making it harder to track and sanction Russian energy exports.
In 2024, more than 60% of Russia's seaborne oil shipments were carried by these vessels, reports Ukrinform.
That includes 78% of its crude oil and 37% of its petroleum products, according to Ukraine’s military intelligence agency.
Russia’s total oil exports by sea are worth over 80 billion euros. Crude oil makes up the largest share at 57 billion euros, while petroleum products account for 26 billion euros.
To avoid restrictions, Russia has expanded its fleet of unregulated tankers. The latest data shows that 387 tankers now operate in this hidden network, transporting more than 57 million metric tons of oil and fuel.
As part of its shifting strategy, Russia is registering more ships under different flags.
In addition to the UAE, India, the Seychelles, and the Marshall Islands, Russian-linked tanker companies are now turning to China, particularly Hong Kong, as well as Russia itself.
Some ships have been placed under new flags in smaller nations such as the Comoros, Curacao, Djibouti, Guyana, Gambia, Sao Tome and Principe, and Tanzania.
This allows them to avoid tighter oversight from Western authorities. Several companies tied to Russia’s shadow fleet have been identified.
These include Fractal Marine Shipping (UAE), Gatik Ship Management (India), Sun Ship Management (UAE), and Hennesea Holdings Limited (UAE).
These firms frequently change ownership, using a tactic known as "ship-juggling." By regularly transferring vessel ownership, they make it harder for regulators to track and enforce sanctions.
Many of these ships operate without proper insurance. Over 90% of the tankers listed as part of the shadow fleet lack coverage from reputable Western insurers.
If one of these vessels spills oil or is involved in an accident, the affected countries may not receive compensation.
The risks go beyond environmental concerns. These ships often switch off their tracking systems, making navigation dangerous.
They also engage in ship-to-ship transfers of oil on the open sea, further complicating efforts to trace the origins of Russian crude.
International efforts to clamp down on these operations continue. The European Union is reportedly considering new sanctions targeting shadow fleet operators and ship captains.
Meanwhile, intelligence agencies are monitoring the fleet’s activities and publishing updates. In a recent case, German authorities seized a Russian shadow fleet tanker named Eventin.
The vessel was carrying around 100,000 tons of crude oil worth 40 million euros.
With more restrictions on Russian oil, the shadow fleet is likely to keep growing. Governments and regulators face an ongoing challenge in tracking and controlling these operations while balancing energy market stability.
