According to Helsingin Sanomat, Russia has begun to allocate personnel with mercenary and security backgrounds to the crews of shadow fleets transporting Russian oil. This move appears to be part of a strategy to prevent these vessels from coming under the control of Western authorities. Reports also indicate that the presence of these individuals serves to monitor the crew and ensure tight control over operations.

Investigations conducted by Helsingin Sanomat, in collaboration with Estonian news outlet Delfi and the international investigative journalism center OCCRP, identified 17 individuals aboard shadow fleet vessels in the Gulf of Finland who lacked maritime qualifications. Twelve of these were linked to the Wagner Group, a well-known Russian paramilitary organization, or the military intelligence agency GRU. This discovery raises significant concerns, as it indicates a strategic reinforcement of Russian influence in the region through unconventional means.

Furthermore, several Western military and civilian intelligence agencies have confirmed the presence of these "protection groups" aboard the vessels, suggesting a broader pattern of militarization in maritime operations. The Finnish Security Intelligence Service (Supo) has indicated to Helsingin Sanomat that these Russian security personnel could be used as points of contact between the shadow fleet and the Russian military, which has increased its presence in the Baltic Sea. This situation underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region and highlights the implications of Russia's actions for maritime security and regional stability.