Ukrainian Sea Drones Strike Third Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Black Sea
Ukraine has carried out a third sea drone attack on a Russian shadow fleet tanker in the Black Sea, marking an escalation in Kyiv’s campaign to disrupt Moscow’s maritime oil trade. The Comoros-flagged Dashan was struck while sailing in Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone en route to the Russian port terminal of Novorossiysk.
Video footage circulated online shows the tanker was unladen at the time of the attack, indicating that Ukraine‘s Sea Baby naval drones successfully targeted the vessel. This strike follows similar attacks on the shadow fleet tankers Kairos and Virat on November 28 and 29, representing a coordinated effort by Ukraine to target vessels suspected of carrying Russian oil in violation of Western sanctions.
Maritime Industry Reels from Escalating Tensions
The attacks have sent shockwaves through the maritime industry and insurance market in particular, with war insurance costs for ships sailing to the Black Sea spiking dramatically. The increased risk has led many shipping companies to reevaluate their routes and cargo options, further straining global supply chains.
Putin Responds with Threats of Retaliation
Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded with sharp threats, warning that Moscow will intensify strikes on Ukrainian facilities and vessels. “Russia would move against tankers of countries that help Ukraine,” Putin stated, threatening to sever Ukraine’s access to the sea.
The Black Sea remains a critical artery for the shipment of grain, oil, and oil products, with its waters shared by Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, Turkey, Russia, and Ukraine. The shadow fleet—a collection of aging tankers often with opaque ownership structures—has become central to Russia’s efforts to circumvent Western sanctions on its oil exports.
Ukraine’s Campaign to Disrupt Russian Oil Trade
Ukraine‘s targeting of these vessels represents a strategic effort to disrupt this trade route and apply economic pressure on Moscow’s war effort. The attacks have been met with international concern, as the Black Sea plays a vital role in global energy and food supplies.
As tensions continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how the maritime industry will adapt to the new reality of sea-based conflict. One thing is certain: Ukraine‘s campaign to disrupt Russian oil trade has sent a clear message that its commitment to defending its sovereignty and economy will not be deterred by Moscow’s aggression.
Original Article: Ukraine Hits Third Russia Shadow Fleet Tanker in Black Sea — Gcaptain