(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sounded the alarm over what he described as Russia's expanding use of its covert "shadow fleet" to carry out espionage and destabilization operations across Europe.

Following a high-level briefing on Tuesday with Oleh Ivashchenko, the head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, Zelenskyy disclosed in a post on the U.S.-based platform X that the Kremlin is leveraging these ships—primarily tankers—for more than just bypassing sanctions.

"Currently, the Russians are using tankers not only to generate revenue for the war, but also for intelligence gathering and even sabotage activities. This can absolutely be stopped," Zelenskyy stated.

He emphasized that Ukraine is closely collaborating with international allies to disrupt Russia’s ability to exploit this clandestine fleet. The vessels, often operating under obscure ownership and with minimal oversight, have drawn increased scrutiny since Western sanctions targeted Russia’s oil exports amid the ongoing invasion.

Zelenskyy underscored that Kyiv is actively sharing intelligence on the fleet’s activities and expects Western partners to escalate countermeasures. He added that the intelligence service has been instructed to prioritize efforts that will result in “more tangible deliveries” of weapons and military supplies.

"We share the information we have with our partners, and it is crucial that they take tangible steps in response to Russia. We are working toward this at all levels, and there will be further meetings, there will be negotiations with our partners, both public and behind closed doors," he said during an evening video address.

Zelenskyy pointed to “recent launches of drones from tankers” as concrete evidence of Russia’s intent to destabilize the region, calling these actions part of a broader sabotage campaign linked to Moscow.

"This can absolutely be stopped," he reiterated, noting that international cooperation is vital to neutralizing the threat.

Russian officials have yet to issue a response to the accusations.

The so-called "shadow fleet" refers to a network of tankers Russia is alleged to be operating discreetly to sidestep international sanctions and continue exporting oil globally. Analysts say the fleet's use has surged since the imposition of sanctions in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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