Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised concerns about Russia’s use of its “shadow fleet,” alleging it is involved in intelligence activities and drone launches across Europe. Zelenskyy’s remarks come after a briefing from Oleh Ivashchenko, head of Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service. He indicated that Russian tankers are not only generating revenue for military operations, but also conducting reconnaissance and sabotage missions.
Zelenskyy Highlights Threats from Russian Shadow Fleet
According to Zelenskyy, there have been instances of drones being launched from oil tankers. He emphasized the need for a significant response from Ukraine’s partners, stating, “We are sharing this information with partners, and it is important that their response to Russia be real.”
Danish Investigation into Drone Sightings
In Denmark, authorities are investigating a possible link between a ship named Boracay and drone sightings above airports and military bases in late September. This tanker was later detained by French military forces. The ship’s captain is expected to face trial in France in February for alleged noncompliance with regulations.
Ukrainian Strikes Inside Russian Territory
Ukrainian drone attacks have reached deep into Russian territory, with significant damage reported at an oil refinery in Tyumen, located over 2,000 kilometers from the frontlines. Reports indicate that at least two drones impacted the facility, damaging critical infrastructure.
Ongoing Conflicts in Crimea
Meanwhile, the Feodosiya oil terminal in Russian-occupied Crimea continues to be affected by a catastrophic fire following prior Ukrainian attacks, with the blaze reportedly spreading.
Nuclear Plant Safety Concerns
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is in discussions with both Ukraine and Russia about restoring off-site power to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The facility has been without external power for over a week and relies on emergency diesel generators.
Drone Incidents at Nuclear Facilities
Russia has claimed that a Ukrainian drone crashed into a cooling tower at the Novovoronezh nuclear plant in Voronezh. No immediate response was given by Ukraine, which frequently accuses Russia and vice versa of targeting nuclear sites.
Ukraine’s Energy Needs Amid Russian Strikes
Ukrainian Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk reported significant damage to the country’s gas infrastructure due to Russian airstrikes, which have occurred 26 times within a single day. Ukraine aims to increase natural gas imports by 30% during winter months to secure energy supplies.
Extradition Controversies Involving Nord Stream
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated it is not in Poland’s interest to extradite a Ukrainian suspect involved in the Nord Stream pipeline explosions.
- The suspect, identified as Volodymyr Z, plans to plead not guilty to allegations of participating in sabotage activities.
Tusk reiterated Poland’s opposition to the Nord Stream pipelines, which he believes made Europe overly reliant on Russian energy sources. No entity has claimed responsibility for the blasts, and Ukraine has denied involvement.
International Responses to Russian Trade
In response to ongoing criticisms about economic ties with Russia, Taiwan’s economy minister revealed that privately run refiners are prepared to cease purchasing Russian naphtha if requested by the EU. This reflects Taiwan’s alignment with major Western sanctions against Russia.
