Navy Says It Is Spending 25% More Time Monitoring Russian Vessels Around UK Waters The Royal Navy's increased vigilance around UK waters is a clear indication that Vladimir Putin's regime is escalating its naval presence in the region.
The 25% rise in time spent monitoring Russian vessels last month is not just a reaction to increased activity, but a warning sign of a more complex strategic play.
For years, Russia has been using its "shadow fleet" – a collection of ageing ships repurposed as tankers and escorts – to evade international sanctions on oil exports.