172 Shadow Fleet Vessels Hit in 13 Days: Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces Strike Russia’s Maritime Operations.

Acquisition of Volga Shipping and Operation 'MoLoChKa'

According to Espreso.tv: Recent developments highlight the reported purchase of Volga Shipping by companies linked to Demetra, alongside a targeted campaign by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, dubbed Operation 'MoLoChKa', aimed at striking Russian vessels. Volga Shipping, which previously belonged to Lisin, handles an annual cargo volume exceeding 15 million metric tons. However, Demetra Holdings has denied any acquisition, with a company spokesperson stating:

“Demetra Holding has not considered the possibility of acquiring this asset.”

Escalation in Maritime Zones

Operation 'MoLoChKa' was launched on July 6. Within the first 13 days of this operation, 172 vessels from Russia’s shadow fleet were detected and recorded. Commander Robert 'Magyar' Brovdi of the Unmanned Systems Forces made the announcement on July 8, remarking:

“A sea battle is a sea battle, and we will see what comes next.”

In response to rising tensions, Russia has restricted commercial shipping due to repeated attacks on its vessels. Meanwhile, approximately 200 Rubicon air defense system units have been redeployed to protect the shadow fleet. These events underscore the heightened volatility in regional waters and the intensifying actions from both sides in the face of new challenges.

This growing instability in maritime zones poses significant risks to shipping safety and could disrupt global trade routes. Russia’s restrictions on commercial navigation highlight the serious threats facing shipping companies, while the increased use of unmanned systems reflects evolving tactical approaches in modern conflicts, potentially shifting the regional balance of power.