Story perspectives

Aging Russian Tankers Threaten UK Waters and Environment

3/13/2026

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Center

Tankers Threaten Environment

Dozens of aging Russian oil tankers, part of a 'shadow fleet,' sail UK waters, prompting environmental concerns.
Over the past year, 90 tankers over 20 years old completed nearly 1,000 journeys despite the ban.
Experts say these vessels are poorly maintained and uninsured, risking oil spills and £1.2 billion in taxpayer costs.
Campaigners say sanctions are ineffective and urge stronger UK action to disrupt illicit trade.

Right

Russia Shields Tankers

Russia is deploying military and intelligence personnel aboard Baltic Sea oil tankers to shield its shadow fleet from Western sanctions.
A joint investigation identifies 17 Russian nationals, many linked to the Wagner Group, as covert security on these vessels.
Their presence complicates interception efforts of tankers carrying sanctioned crude.
A Russian-flagged tanker conducted a $29.3 million covert oil transfer in the Gulf of Oman, exploiting regional instability.

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Tankers Threaten Environment

Dozens of aging Russian oil tankers, part of a 'shadow fleet,' sail UK waters, prompting environmental concerns.
Over the past year, 90 tankers over 20 years old completed nearly 1,000 journeys despite the ban.
Experts say these vessels are poorly maintained and uninsured, risking oil spills and £1.2 billion in taxpayer costs.
Campaigners say sanctions are ineffective and urge stronger UK action to disrupt illicit trade.

1 / 2