Blasts Rock Sanctioned Tankers in Black Sea Near Turkey’s Coast
Blasts have rocked two tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet in the Black Sea near Turkey’s Bosphorus strait, causing fires on the vessels, and rescue operations were launched for those on board, Turkish authorities and sources said.
The 274-meter-long tanker Kairos suffered an explosion and caught fire in the Black Sea while en route from Egypt to Russia, Turkey‘s Transport Ministry said. The ministry reported that two fast rescue boats, a tugboat, and an emergency response vessel were immediately dispatched to the scene and the 25 crew members on board were safely rescued.
Rescues Underway for Crews of Affected Tankers
The Kairos was heading to Russia’s Novorossiysk port when it reported “an external impact” causing a fire 28 nautical miles off the Turkish shore, Turkey‘s Maritime Affairs Directorate said. Heavy smoke was detected in the engine room but the 20 personnel on board were in good condition.
Another tanker, Virat, was reportedly struck some 35 nautical miles offshore, further east in the Black Sea, and rescue units and a commercial vessel were sent to the scene. Both Kairos and Virat are on a list of ships subject to sanctions imposed against Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, according to LSEG data.
Sanctions-Targeted Tankers Involved in Incidents
The Kairos was sailing under the Gambian flag and in ballast when the incident occurred, Tribeca shipping agency said. Reports indicate that the ship may have struck a mine and be in danger of sinking. Shipping traffic through the strait continued, the agency said.
Despite these incidents, Turkey‘s Transport Ministry emphasized that maritime traffic in the region remains safe, with no reports of any other vessels being affected by the blasts. The ministry has also launched an investigation into the causes of the explosions and is working closely with international authorities to ensure the safety of all ships operating in the area.
Original Article: Blasts hit sanctioned tankers off Turkey’s coast, rescues underway — Ekathimerini