Russian ‘dark fleet’ tanker believed to be delivering oil to Cuba, detected off US coast amid Trump ban

Fox News - WorldEN 2 min read 100% complete by Emma BusseyFebruary 25, 2026 at 01:26 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

A Russian tanker, the Sea Horse, suspected of carrying fuel to Cuba, was detected off the U.S. East Coast, potentially violating U.S. sanctions. Maritime intelligence firm Windward reports the tanker is employing "dark fleet" tactics, including manipulating its AIS signal and conducting ship-to-ship transfers offshore near Cyprus to obscure its movements. The tanker initially indicated Havana as its destination before changing it multiple times, including a false designation of Gibraltar after already passing the strait. These actions coincide with increased U.S. pressure on Cuba's fuel supply and sanctions targeting countries that provide oil to the island, following President Trump's executive order declaring a national emergency regarding Cuba. Windward's analysis suggests the tanker loaded its cargo via ship-to-ship transfer, a common practice to circumvent sanctions.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hong Kong 30% Havana 35% MarineTraffic 40% Nicolás Maduro 50% Sea Horse 60% Donald Trump 70% Windward ×875% Russia ×380% United States ×385% Cuba ×690%

Keywords

dark fleet 90% oil tanker 80% sanctions 70% cuba 70% ship-to-ship transfer 70% russian oil 60% ais signal manipulation 60% maritime intelligence 50% regulatory scrutiny 40%