An investigation by the Kyiv Independent has revealed that vessels of the Russian shadow fleet actively use Starlink for communication and coordination. Journalists spoke with Ukrainian sailors who unwittingly became participants in the Kremlin’s illegal oil transportation operations used to fund the war. This information was confirmed by two other workers who were on board Russian tankers — according to them, communication between the vessels and their actual owners is often maintained through Western technologies, specifically satellite phones and Starlink equipment.
According to the crew members, the terminals are usually purchased through front companies. In other parts of the world, Starlink can be freely ordered with mail delivery. The sailors emphasize that since these devices are not considered weapons, anyone can buy them. This allows shadow fleet operators to have unimpeded access to modern communication tools to coordinate maritime shipping while bypassing international restrictions.
