Pro-Ukrainian activists operating within Russia have alleged that Russian military leaders are planning to equip their covert fleet vessels with anti-aircraft personnel to prevent potential attacks. Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces have reportedly targeted 147 Russian ships in the Black and Azov Seas between July 6 and July 16, with an additional six ships struck recently.
Agents affiliated with the “Atesh” group, assisting Ukraine, have disclosed that Russia intends to deploy at least three anti-missile soldiers on the sanctioned vessels. This move comes in response to the British Royal Marines seizing the Russian Smyrtos shadow vessel in the English Channel. The presence of troops on these vessels could pose increased risks for elite forces attempting to board them during future operations.
The “Atesh” group released a statement indicating that Ukraine’s Defense Forces have imposed sanctions on over 136 Russian tankers operating illegally in Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone in a brief period. The statement also mentioned Russia’s plans to involve personnel from the Rubicon UAV Center, the 51st Air Defense Division, and the 1096th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment.
Each tanker is expected to carry up to three servicemen armed with twin machine guns, portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), and anti-drone weaponry. This strategic shift occurs as Ukraine intensifies its attacks on Russian forces, disrupting logistical chains with drone strikes. Moreover, numerous oil and gas facilities in Russia have been targeted in long-range missile attacks, significantly impacting Kremlin finances and Vladimir Putin’s ability to fund military efforts.
However, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky faces criticism for dismissing popular defense minister Mykhailo Federov, leading to protests in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Federov, credited with enhancing military performance through anti-corruption efforts, was replaced by Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara, the acting head of the Security Service (SBU). The decision has caused speculation about internal conflicts within the Ukrainian government.
