Russia's Naval Escalation: A Calculated Move or a Cry for Help? The Royal Navy has warned of a 25% surge in Russian ships near UK waters, sparking concerns about Moscow's intentions and capabilities.
The increase is significant, with more than one quarter more Russian vessels seen in the area over the past year.
Russia's use of its "shadow fleet" – ageing tankers used to evade international sanctions on oil exports and fund the war in Ukraine – has become a contentious issue.