Kyiv – The hybrid warfare dimension of the Ukraine conflict has heated up significantly, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s accusation that Russia is using its oil tanker fleet for military purposes. This move raises the stakes by extending the conflict into the global commercial sphere.
Zelenskyy’s claim that Russia is using these ships for “reconnaissance and even sabotage activities” is a serious charge that, if proven, would constitute a major violation of maritime norms. It suggests a deep integration of Russia’s commercial and military-intelligence apparatus.
Ukraine is vowing a robust, internationally-backed response. Zelenskyy stated that he is working with partners to find a way to halt these activities, expressing confidence that “it is entirely possible to stop this.”
This new front in the hybrid war has emerged as the conventional war continues to favor Russia, according to Moscow. President Vladimir Putin announced the capture of nearly 5,000 square kilometers this year, claiming his forces now hold the “complete strategic initiative.”
The geopolitical risks also remain high, with Putin issuing a direct threat to the U.S. over the potential supply of Tomahawk missiles, warning it would be a major escalation that would destroy their bilateral relationship.