Ukraine’s Security Service Conducts Special Operation Against Russia’s Shadow Fleet
The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has carried out a special operation against two sanctioned oil tankers, Kairo and Virat, in the Black Sea as part of its efforts to disrupt Russia‘s shadow fleet. According to Ukrainska Pravda sources within the SSU, the operation involved the use of upgraded Sea Baby maritime drones, which were successfully employed against the vessels.
The attack resulted in critical damage to both tankers, effectively putting them out of service and dealing a significant blow to the transport of Russian oil. The sanctioned vessels had been sailing empty, heading to be loaded at Novorossiysk port. The strike is estimated to have disabled vessels that could carry nearly US$70 million worth of oil, which has helped the Kremlin circumvent international sanctions.
Background: Ukraine’s Efforts to Disrupt Russia’s Shadow Fleet
Ukraine has been actively working to disrupt Russia‘s shadow fleet, which has grown significantly in recent years. The country has blocked Russia’s bid for membership of the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the UN agency responsible for maritime safety, for 2026-2027. This move is seen as a significant blow to Russia’s efforts to circumvent international sanctions.
In addition to this, Ukraine has also taken steps to target specific vessels involved in the shadow fleet. The attack on the Kairo and Virat tankers is just one example of these efforts. By targeting key vessels and disrupting supply chains, Ukraine aims to weaken Russia‘s ability to wage war against it and undermine its financial capacity.
Quotes from Ukrainian Officials
“We are committed to cutting Russia‘s financial capacity to wage war against Ukraine,” said an SSU official. “The Sea Baby maritime drones have been a game-changer in our efforts to disrupt the shadow fleet, and we will continue to use them to target vessels that support Russian aggression.”
The operation is seen as a significant escalation of Ukraine‘s campaign against Russia‘s shadow fleet, and it is likely to have far-reaching implications for the global oil market. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to escalate, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the situation on the ground.
Original Article: Two tankers of Russia’s shadow fleet hit by Ukraine’s Security Service maritime drones – Ukrainska Pravda source — Ukrainska Pravda