Evasive Tactics Global Trade

• Video: How a Russian dark fleet is used to evade international sanctions
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The growing trend of Russian oil tankers operating under the so-called "dark fleet" has become an increasingly prominent feature in global trade, especially as Western sanctions continue to target Russian energy exports. This network of tankers, primarily used for transporting Russian oil to various markets, has adapted sophisticated methods of evading international sanctions.

These ships come from a variety of sources. Originally, many were registered under Russian flags, but in response to the sanctions, shipowners have re-flagged them under less regulated jurisdictions, such as those in the Middle East or smaller countries with minimal oversight. These vessels can be hard to trace due to these frequent changes in registration, further complicating enforcement efforts against Russia’s oil industry.

Evasive Tactics and Operations

The operations of these dark fleet tankers are often shrouded in secrecy. To circumvent restrictions, these vessels employ several evasive tactics, including turning off their tracking systems, altering their shipping routes, or transferring oil between ships in mid-ocean to disguise the origin of the cargo. These “ship-to-ship” transfers allow them to blend into the global supply chain, making it difficult for authorities to track their activities.

In terms of how these tankers are insured, the process is equally opaque. Many vessels are covered by obscure, unregulated insurers who operate outside of traditional maritime insurance markets, further complicating efforts to identify and target these operations. The lack of transparency in both vessel registration and insurance means that even if authorities can trace the oil, there are often no clear paths to holding operators accountable.

Market Routes for Russian Oil

The final piece of the puzzle is where these tankers sell their oil. While much of the Russian oil once went to European markets, sanctions have forced Russia to pivot towards Asia, particularly China and India. The dark fleet is essential in this new strategy, allowing Russia to sell its oil at discounted rates to countries that are willing to ignore Western sanctions. This method not only supports the Russian economy but also undermines the effectiveness of sanctions intended to isolate Russia in the global energy market.

While the international community continues to monitor these activities, the dark fleet represents a significant challenge in the effort to disrupt Russia's oil exports. With their ability to avoid detection and operate outside of traditional regulatory frameworks, these tankers are likely to remain a fixture of the global oil trade for the foreseeable future.

Sources:

• AP News: Shadow fleet of tankers keeps Russia's oil money flowing despite Western sanctions
• Le Monde: Russia's ghost fleets, a strategic asset for selling sanctioned oil

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