A tanker linked to an alleged Russian “shadow fleet” is leaking oil off Oman near a nature reserve after explosions aboard the vessel, according to multiple reports. The ship is operating far from the Strait of Hormuz, and NGOs warn that the spill could expand over hundreds of square kilometres, creating an environmental disaster risk. A maritime security firm says the tanker was rocked by explosions, but the cause of the blasts remains unclear. The reports note that Russia has used a network of older, often poorly maintained vessels with opaque ownership structures to evade Western sanctions since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Experts have said the poor condition of these ships increases the likelihood of accidents and oil spills. The articles do not provide details on the amount of oil released, the exact location in Oman’s waters, or any confirmed responsibility beyond the vessel’s alleged links to the shadow fleet. Both outlets emphasize the proximity to protected areas and the uncertainty surrounding the explosion incident.