Blaze Engulfs Liberian-Flagged Tanker Off Sochi After Black Sea Attack
A Liberian-flagged oil tanker caught fire off Russia’s Black Sea resort city of Sochi on Tuesday evening after what Russian authorities described as an attack by an unmanned vessel, sending flames and thick black smoke over the coastline. The Aframax Rio was struck at sea, and crude oil was burning in the Black Sea. All 23 crew members – Indian nationals – were rescued without injuries.
Firefighters initially struggled to approach the vessel because of the intensity of the blaze. Videos and photos circulating on Russian social media showed bright orange flames offshore and a towering column of black smoke visible from Sochi. The blaze was intense enough to prevent firefighters from immediately tackling it, according to AFP.
Beaches Closed as Smoke Spreads
Authorities restricted access to beaches and sections of the coastline as smoke from the burning tanker spread toward Sochi. The fire was visible from across the resort city, while emergency services monitored the vessel and surrounding waters. The incident brought the escalating Black Sea maritime conflict directly to Russia’s southern coast, where shipping and energy infrastructure have increasingly come under threat.
Tanker Linked to Russia’s Shadow Fleet
The Aframax Rio has been identified by Ukraine as part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet – a network of tankers used to keep Russian oil exports moving despite Western sanctions, price caps, and other restrictions imposed after Moscow’s full-scale invasion. Kyiv sanctioned the vessel in February, saying ships in the network help Russia preserve vital energy revenues that fund its war against Ukraine.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine over maritime trade and energy supplies. The shadow fleet has been a key component of Russia’s efforts to maintain oil exports despite international pressure.
Original Article: Russia Shadow Fleet Tanker Burns off Sochi After Black Sea Attack — Kyivpost