NATO Naval Patrol Confronts Russian Sabotage in Baltic Sea

NATO naval patrol in Baltic Sea confronts Russian sabotage operations targeting undersea cables, playing cat-and-mouse with suspected saboteurs. The threat is from 'shadow fleet' merchant vessels. Recent incident involved an aging oil tanker damaging undersea infrastructure. NATO aims to deconflict and deter attacks, relying on European forces. Concerns over U.S. commitment to European security amid Trump administration's focus shift to the Pacific.

Russia's Crude Oil Sales to India and Shadow Fleet

Russia benefits from increased crude oil sales to India, which then exports to the US, potentially using shadow tankers to evade sanctions. The shadow fleet helps Russia navigate Western sanctions, with India aiding by purchasing Russian crude. The complex trade involves ship-to-ship transfers and intricate routes, impacting global oil trade and geopolitics.