For the first time, Danish authorities have monitored, summoned, and officially recorded what are referred to as EU-sanctioned designated vessels. This effort led to the registration of 292 shadow fleet voyages in Danish waters last year, as reported by the Danish Maritime Authority for DR. These vessels are suspected of carrying sanctioned Russian oil, but may also conceal other problematic cargo such as chemicals, weapons, or personnel.

According to Yevgeniy Golovchenko, an assistant professor at the University of Copenhagen and an expert in shadow fleets, these ships pose a potential threat to Danish national security. He notes that the vessels are suspected of being involved in monitoring or contributing to sabotage against critical infrastructure. This activity is characterized as a core element of hybrid warfare, aiming to harm the opponent—in this case, Denmark—while keeping the conflict below the threshold of formal warfare.

The analysis by Danish authorities and experts highlights significant implications for maritime safety and national defense amidst growing geopolitical tensions. The findings may lead to increased scrutiny of maritime activities in Denmark as authorities seek to mitigate risks associated with these shadow fleets and their potential connections to hostile actions against the country or its allies.