Russia is considering armed naval patrols to protect its "shadow fleet" of oil tankers following recent attacks. Nikolai Patrushev, a senior Putin aide and head of the Russian Maritime Board, announced plans for mobile firing groups and arming vessels as Moscow pushes back against suspected Ukrainian strikes on its sanctions-evading tankers.

The shadow fleet has been crucial for Russia's oil exports since the 2022 invasion, using deceptive practices to evade Western sanctions. Russia accuses Ukraine of attacks including the Arctic Metagaz LNG tanker blaze off Libya, while Kyiv claims responsibility for strikes on vessels in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. These incidents have intensified maritime tensions.

Patrushev signaled Russia's intent to bring the shadow fleet under its direct control, criticizing the practice of using "convenient flags." Despite temporary budget benefits from higher oil prices, he warned that conflicts risk damaging Russia's relationships in the Middle East and disrupting global maritime trade. Russia plans to inspect ships entering its ports and increase control over export cargoes.