Pro-Ukrainian activists operating inside Russia have alleged that Kremlin military leaders are making plans to equip their covert ships with anti-aircraft troops to defend against potential attacks.
Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) have reportedly targeted 147 Russian vessels in the Black and Azov Seas from July 6 to July 16, with an additional six ships being struck recently.
According to members of the “Atesh” group supporting Ukraine, Russia is preparing to deploy at least three anti-missile soldiers on ships involved in bypassing sanctions. This move comes in response to the interception of a Russian shadow vessel by British Royal Marines in the English Channel. The presence of troops on these vessels could pose increased risks for elite forces attempting to board them.
The “Atesh” faction stated that Ukraine’s Defense Forces have imposed sanctions on over 136 Russian tankers within just 10 days. Russia is said to be sending personnel from various military units to the vessels, each carrying up to three servicemen armed with machine guns, portable air-defense systems, and anti-drone weaponry.
As Ukraine ramps up its attacks on Russian forces, targeting their supply lines with drone strikes, significant damage has been inflicted on oil and gas installations deep within Russian territory, affecting Kremlin revenues and impacting President Vladimir Putin’s ability to fund the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces criticism for dismissing popular Defense Minister Mykhailo Federov, leading to protests in Kyiv and other cities across Ukraine. Federov, credited with enhancing the military’s performance and combating corruption, was replaced by Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara, endorsed for his experience in technological combat operations.
The leadership change has sparked speculation about internal tensions within the Ukrainian government, with Federov reportedly falling out with key aides, including Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Zelensky’s decision to replace Federov has stirred controversy and triggered demonstrations demanding the reinstatement of the former defense minister.