The United States has reportedly struck five Iranian tankers, with Ukraine alleging three of those vessels were also connected to Russia’s “shadow fleet.” According to Ukrainian intelligence, these tankers were involved in transporting Russian oil. They had either called at Russian ports directly or were operating within networks specifically designed to bypass international sanctions imposed on Russia. This action highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt the financial support of Russia’s war efforts through illicit oil trade. The strikes indicate a heightened strategy to target not only the direct flow of Russian oil, but also the infrastructure supporting its movement. Ukraine views this as a critical step in tightening the noose on Russia’s ability to fund its invasion. Further details regarding the nature and extent of the U.S. operation remain limited.