Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that a shadow fleet of Russian tankers is actively involved in launching drones used for reconnaissance and sabotage missions targeting Europe. One such tanker, the Boracay, was boarded by French soldiers off the coast of Denmark in late September, linked to Russian drone operations. These tankers operate in a 'grey zone' beyond direct Russian Navy control but support drone flights and installations. Ukraine also reported a drone attack on a remote Russian refinery in Siberia, which was possibly launched by these vessels. The shadow fleet's activities include flying drones over Europe for reconnaissance and harassment, representing a novel Russian hybrid tactic using maritime platforms to extend UAV operations. Zelenskyy’s briefing highlighted the persistent threat these drone-launched operations pose to European infrastructure and security, emphasizing the need for vigilance and countermeasures.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that a shadow fleet of Russian tankers is actively involved in launching drones used for reconnaissance and sabotage missions targeting Europe. One such tanker, the Boracay, was boarded by French soldiers off the coast of Denmark in late September, linked to Russian drone operations. These tankers operate in a 'grey zone' beyond direct Russian Navy control but support drone flights and installations. Ukraine also reported a drone attack on a remote Russian refinery in Siberia, which was possibly launched by these vessels. The shadow fleet's activities include flying drones over Europe for reconnaissance and harassment, representing a novel Russian hybrid tactic using maritime platforms to extend UAV operations. Zelenskyy’s briefing highlighted the persistent threat these drone-launched operations pose to European infrastructure and security, emphasizing the need for vigilance and countermeasures.