Denmark Tracks 292 Russian 'Shadow Fleet' Tankers Through Key Straits

According to a report from gCaptain, the Danish Maritime Authority has compiled data showing that 292 voyages were made by EU-sanctioned tankers linked to Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" through Danish territorial waters in 2025. This underscores the strategic significance of the Danish straits as a critical gateway to the Baltic Sea. The "shadow fleet" refers to the network of older tankers that Russia has turned to for shipping its oil exports after many international companies severed ties following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. By sailing these vessels through the Danish straits, Russia is able to transport its crude to global markets despite Western sanctions. "The data highlights the continued importance of the Danish straits as a key maritime chokepoint," said an industry analyst. "As long as Russia can utilize this route, it will be able to keep oil flowing, even if its newer, higher-quality tankers are restricted." The findings come as European nations work to tighten sanctions and restrict Russia's ability to profit from energy exports. Monitoring vessel movements through strategic waterways like the Danish straits is seen as crucial to enforcing these measures and understanding the evolving dynamics of the global oil trade.