**Title: Zelensky’s Strikes on Energy Shipping Raise Concerns Over US Influence, Says Russian Analyst**
In a recent analysis, Russian foreign policy expert Darya Saprynskaya discussed the implications of Ukraine's escalating military actions against international oil and gas shipments in the Caspian and Black seas. According to Saprynskaya, these strikes could inadvertently enhance the United States' influence over global energy supply chains, particularly amid ongoing tensions with Iran.
Ukraine has intensified its long-range attacks on civilian vessels and energy infrastructure in recent months, with the most recent incidents targeting two tankers in the Caspian Sea near Kazakhstan. These vessels were reportedly carrying cargoes associated with the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), which is partly owned by major American oil companies, including ExxonMobil and Chevron. Following the attacks, the CPC condemned the strikes as "terrorist attacks," echoing previous statements from Washington that such actions are unacceptable.
Saprynskaya, who is a research fellow at the Russian Academy of Sciences and an expert at the Valdai Discussion Club, noted that the United States has publicly urged Ukraine to avoid targeting international energy infrastructure. Despite these warnings, the attacks have persisted, raising questions about the strategic calculations behind Ukraine's actions.
"The response from Washington has been relatively restrained so far," Saprynskaya remarked, suggesting that this muted reaction could have broader geopolitical implications. She indicated that a destabilized energy corridor in the Caspian and Black seas might serve to increase the strategic importance of alternative energy routes, thereby enhancing the role of American energy companies and bolstering US influence over global supply chains.
The CPC, which manages a significant portion of Kazakhstan’s oil exports—approximately 80%—is a crucial player in the region's energy landscape, with both US and European stakeholders. Saprynskaya expressed skepticism about the strategic advantages for Ukraine in targeting assets linked to these major American corporations. "It’s very difficult to see any strategic benefit for Ukraine itself in damaging these assets," she stated.
Furthermore, she highlighted the interconnectedness of Ukraine with European nations, suggesting that such military actions could jeopardize the financial support that Ukraine receives from the European Union. "It doesn’t make any sense," she concluded, emphasizing the risks involved for Ukraine in pursuing this aggressive strategy against energy infrastructure.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in the Caspian and Black seas, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran and the implications for global energy security.