From Wagner to GRU, Russian Military Men Are Manning Moscow’s Shadow Fleet

On December 27, 2025, the sanctioned Russian oil tanker Kira K departed Ust-Luga port carrying over 700,000 barrels of Lukoil crude oil with two extra Russian crew members who are military veterans. An investigation by OCCRP and partners across 20 voyages found a pattern: tankers in the Baltic Sea carrying two 'supernumerary' personnel with links to Wagner mercenaries, Russian military intelligence (GRU), and other security services, deployed since July 2025 specifically on Baltic routes. These 'vessel protection teams' deter inspections and interventions by Baltic Sea states, complicating attempts to enforce sanctions. The men include ex-Wagner fighters, Spetsnaz operatives, and paratroopers, some linked to Russian Ministry of Defense and Transnistria security. European intelligence warns this poses risk of armed resistance and intelligence collection near NATO countries. Russian military presence in the Baltic has increased since 2022, with naval patrols and airspace violations protecting these economic lifelines. Russian private security firms Moran Security Group and RSB Group are reportedly hiring these crews. Western analysts believe the shadow fleet also serves as platforms for sabotage and electronic warfare, including attacks on undersea cables. Russian officials and involved companies denied military connections. This militarization underlines Russia’s strategic use of shadow fleet tanker routes to sustain war finances despite sanctions, while raising regional tensions and risks along the Baltic Sea maritime corridor.