Ukraine Launches First Successful Drone Attack on Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has successfully targeted a Russian “shadow fleet” tanker using drones in the neutral waters of the Mediterranean Sea. According to an informed source who spoke to hromadske on December 19, the operation took place more than 2,000 kilometers from Ukrainian territory. Ukrainian drones struck the Russian tanker, QENDIL, causing significant damage and rendering the vessel inoperable.
The attack occurred when the tanker was empty and not transporting any cargo, so it did not pose any environmental risk to the region. The SBU’s operation aimed to disrupt Russia‘s efforts to circumvent international sanctions and fund its war against Ukraine.
“Russia used this tanker to circumvent sanctions and earn money that funded its war against Ukraine,” said the source. “From the perspective of international law and the laws of warfare, this was a completely legitimate target for the SBU. The enemy must understand that Ukraine will not stop and will strike at any point in the world, no matter where it is.”
Consequences of Drone Attack
The attack on the Russian tanker has significant implications for Russia‘s shadow fleet operations. The QENDIL is now out of operation, and its crew members are likely to face difficulties in finding alternative vessels to transport goods.
Furthermore, the attack highlights Ukraine‘s determination to disrupt Russia‘s efforts to evade international sanctions. By targeting a key component of Russia’s shadow fleet, Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to strike at any point in the world where Russian interests are involved.
Previous Incidents
In recent weeks, Ukrainian authorities have taken steps to counter Russia‘s shadow fleet operations. On December 18, Ukraine‘s Security Service located and confiscated a foreign vessel involved in Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which was unlawfully transporting Ukrainian agricultural goods from the temporarily occupied Crimea.
This incident underscores Ukraine‘s commitment to preventing Russian aggression and upholding international law. By targeting vessels involved in illegal activities, Ukraine is sending a strong message that it will not tolerate such actions on its territory or in international waters.
Related Incidents
On December 18, a Russian oil tanker was set on fire overnight at the port of Rostov-on-Don following a large-scale drone attack. Regional governor Yuriy Slyusar confirmed that the tanker was damaged during the assault, resulting in the deaths of two crew members and injuries to three others.
Rostov’s Mayor Aleksandr Skryabin later verified that the fire occurred aboard the tanker, with emergency services working to contain the blaze. Preliminary reports indicate that authorities were able to prevent an oil spill from occurring.
Original Article: Ukraine Launches First Successful Drone Attack on Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean — United24Media