Ukraine Claims Successful Strikes Against Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tankers in Black Sea
Ukraine‘s security services have announced that underwater drones were used to strike two tankers belonging to Russia‘s so-called shadow fleet in the Black Sea. The attacks occurred on Friday and Saturday, with both vessels sustaining critical damage.
According to a Ukrainian security source, the Sea Baby maritime drones were used in a joint operation by the SBU and the navy. The source stated that the attacks would significantly impact the transportation of Russian oil, as both tankers are now effectively out of service.
Russia uses hundreds of tankers, many sailing under different flags of convenience, to ship its oil to customers in defiance of sanctions. The Gambian-flagged tanker Virat was attacked again on Saturday, after first sustaining damage on Friday, according to Turkey’s Transport Ministry. Minor damage was sustained above the waterline, and there was no fire.
Turkish Authorities Respond to Attacks
The Turkish foreign ministry expressed concern over the attacks, which “posed serious risks to the safety of navigation, life, property, and the environment in the region.” The Virat‘s destination was unclear, as it awaited orders in the Black Sea. Shipping data showed it slowing and turning towards the coast late on Friday.
Other Ships Sanctioned for Carrying Russian Oil
The Kairos, a Gambian-flagged tanker carrying Russian crude oil, was also attacked on Friday. All 25 crew members on board were evacuated. Neither vessel was in Turkish waters when they were hit. The Kairos is 275 meters long and weighs nearly 80,000 tons.
Pipeline Attack in Novorossiysk
A marine drone attack occurred early Saturday at a mooring point in Novorossiysk, according to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. Kazakhstan’s energy ministry said it had “activated a plan to redirect export oil volumes to alternative routes” after the strike.
Original Article: Ukraine says it hit Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tankers with underwater drones in Black Sea — Kesq