According to the Estonian Navy and military officers, nearly 40 Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers remain stuck and inactive in the Gulf of Finland, outside Russian ports, posing a significant risk to the marine environment due to potential pollution. These vessels avoid official port entry to circumvent sanctions but require inspections and fuel renewals. The Estonian Navy monitors these vessels, concerned about risks and possible movements after recent Ukrainian military strikes on Russian ports. Environmental pollution is identified as the primary threat from this shadow fleet. Estonia conducts continuous inspections but faces challenges given the vessels' unsanctioned status and questionable conditions. This situation adds complexity to maritime security in the region amid ongoing conflict tensions.

According to the Estonian Navy and military officers, nearly 40 Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers remain stuck and inactive in the Gulf of Finland, outside Russian ports, posing a significant risk to the marine environment due to potential pollution. These vessels avoid official port entry to circumvent sanctions but require inspections and fuel renewals. The Estonian Navy monitors these vessels, concerned about risks and possible movements after recent Ukrainian military strikes on Russian ports. Environmental pollution is identified as the primary threat from this shadow fleet. Estonia conducts continuous inspections but faces challenges given the vessels' unsanctioned status and questionable conditions. This situation adds complexity to maritime security in the region amid ongoing conflict tensions.