Drone Attack Damages Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Black Sea
The oil tanker Altura, part of Russia’s shadow fleet, came under a drone attack in the Black Sea, Turkish broadcaster NTV reported on March 26. The incident highlights the ongoing efforts by European countries to curb Russia’s ability to bypass sanctions imposed over Moscow’s war against Ukraine.
The Altura was en route to Istanbul under the Sierra Leone flag, carrying 140,000 tons of oil from Novorossiysk in Russia’s Krasnodar Krai. According to NTV, the drone attack damaged the vessel’s deck, bridge, and engine room, causing it to take on water. All 27 crew members on board were unharmed.
Ukraine’s Efforts to Target Russian Shadow Fleet
Ukraine has repeatedly urged its partners to modernize legislation so vessels operating under Russia’s shadow fleet can be seized and their oil redirected to support European security. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine has been working to disrupt the network. In early March, Belgium conducted a joint operation with France to seize a sanctioned Russian oil tanker operating under the Guinean flag.
France has actively targeted the shadow fleet in its waters, intercepting vessels in late September 2025, at the end of January, and again in late March as part of wider efforts to disrupt the network. The U.K. announced on March 25 that its armed forces and law enforcement personnel will be authorized to board Russian shadow fleet vessels in British waters.
International Efforts to Counter Russia’s Shadow Fleet
The international community has been working together to counter Russia’s shadow fleet. In addition to France, Belgium, and the U.K., other countries have taken steps to target the network. Sanctions have been imposed by Ukraine, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom against vessels operating under Russia’s shadow fleet.
The Altura regularly transports Russian oil to India and Georgia, according to Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR). The tanker has been under sanctions since 2025, and its involvement in the shadow fleet highlights the ongoing challenges faced by European countries in their efforts to curb Russia’s ability to bypass sanctions.
Original Article: Russian shadow fleet tanker carrying 140,000 tons of oil hit by drone in Black Sea — Kyivindependent