Ukraine Strikes Back: Drones Target Russian “Shadow Fleet” Tankers in Black Sea
The Ukrainian security services have taken a bold step to disrupt Russia‘s efforts to evade Western sanctions by targeting two oil tankers used by Moscow’s “shadow fleet” with underwater drones in the Black Sea.
The two tankers, identified as the “Kairos” and “Virat“, were empty when they were struck, but could have transported nearly $70 million worth of oil. The attack has dealt a significant blow to Russian oil transportation, according to a Ukrainian security service source who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Critical Damage and Effective Takeout
The Kairos, which was returning to Russia after delivering crude oil to India, was sailing under the flag of Gambia when it was hit. The 900-foot tanker had been sanctioned by the EU and UK. Footage shared by the security service shows a rapid explosion in the front of one of the tankers, followed by a large bright orange ball of flames erupting from the water and thick billowing black smoke rising several feet into the air.
The fire and smoke continued to spread higher and wider, engulfing the tanker. The ships were heavily sanctioned by Western powers, with the Kairos being targeted in a joint operation with Ukraine‘s navy.
Shadow Fleet’s Multibillion-Dollar Revenues
The “shadow fleet” continues to provide multibillion-dollar revenues for the Kremlin, bypassing sanctions and disguising its activities under the flags of third countries. The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine has described the Kairos as part of this shadowy network, using complex schemes to conceal owners.
Crew Evacuated, Tankers Out of Service
The Virat, which was also targeted in a second strike on Saturday morning, 35 nautical miles from the Turkish coast, suffered heavy smoke in its engine room but all 20 crew members were safely evacuated. The tanker was hit while traveling toward the Russian port of Novorossiysk, a major oil terminal.
The attack has sent a strong message to Russia‘s “shadow fleet”, which Ukraine claims is helping fund Moscow’s nearly four-year long war. The Ukrainian security services have repeatedly called for tougher sanctions on this fleet, and Saturday’s strikes demonstrate their commitment to disrupting Russian efforts to evade international pressure.
Original Article: Ukraine hit two ‘shadow fleet’ oil tankers with drones in Black Sea — Nypost