Explosions Rock Russian Shadow Fleet Tankers in Black Sea
On November 28, two tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet suffered explosions and subsequent fires near the Bosporus Strait in the Black Sea. The incidents occurred while the vessels were sailing through international waters, according to Turkish authorities and sources linked to maritime security.
The first tanker, Kairos, was traveling from Egypt to the Russian port of Novorossiysk when it experienced an explosion and fire. The Turkish Ministry of Transport reported that the fire was caused by an “external impact,” with some sources suggesting that the vessel may have struck a mine. The 274-meter-long tanker was carrying no cargo at the time of the incident.
The crew of Kairos, comprising 25 people, were safely evacuated from the ship using two high-speed rescue boats, a tug, and an emergency vessel. The fire in the engine room caused heavy smoke, but the crew members are reported to be in satisfactory condition. There is currently a risk that the vessel may sink.
Virat Also Affected
A second tanker, Virat, was damaged by an explosion approximately 35 nautical miles off the coast of Türkiye, slightly eastward in the Black Sea. The incident occurred while the ship was sailing through international waters. Rescue units were dispatched to assist the vessel, and all 20 crew members on board are reported to be in satisfactory condition.
There is some information suggesting that Virat may have been attacked by maritime drones. Both Kairos and Virat are listed as vessels subject to sanctions against Russia, imposed following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Background on Russia’s Shadow Fleet
Russia’s shadow fleet includes tankers, bulk carriers, gas carriers, and other large vessels that are formally owned by third countries or private companies but are effectively controlled by Russia. These ships are often registered under “flags of convenience” (for example, Gambia, Liberia, Panama) to conceal their connection to Russia.
It is estimated that roughly one in six tankers worldwide belongs to the shadow fleet, accounting for about 17% of all active tankers. The European Union is currently considering new restrictive measures against those who support the operation of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet of tankers.
Despite these incidents and concerns about maritime traffic through the Bosporus Strait, the Turkish authorities have not reported any disruptions to shipping in the region.
Original Article: Two tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet catch fire near Bosporus following explosions — Rbc