Pro-Ukraine operatives within Russia have alleged that Kremlin military leaders are planning to equip their “shadow fleet” vessels with anti-aircraft troops to defend against potential attacks.
Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) have reportedly targeted 147 Russian ships in the Black and Azov Seas from July 6 to July 16, with an additional six vessels hit recently.
According to supporters of Ukraine’s “Atesh” group, Russia intends to deploy at least three anti-missile soldiers on the sanctioned vessels to retaliate against Ukraine’s actions in imposing physical sanctions on Russian tankers operating in Ukraine’s economic zone.
Each ship is expected to carry up to three servicemen armed with twin machine guns, portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), and anti-drone weapons. This development comes as Ukraine ramps up drone attacks on Russian logistics routes, affecting oil and gas facilities deep within Russian territory.
The financial impact of these attacks has significantly drained Kremlin resources and hindered Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ability to fund ongoing military operations. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces internal pressure following the dismissal of popular defense minister Mykhailo Federov, leading to protests in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.
While Federov has been credited with Ukraine’s military successes, Zelensky’s decision to remove him stems from alleged conflicts with a key aide. Zelensky has nominated Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara as the acting defense minister, emphasizing Khmara’s experience in technological combat operations.
The change in leadership within Ukraine’s defense establishment has sparked controversy and raised concerns about possible disruptions to ongoing military strategies.
