In brief
In a bold move to weaken Russia's financial support for the ongoing war, Ukraine has launched drone attacks on two Russian oil tankers in the Black Sea. Footage corroborated by the BBC shows naval drones successfully striking the ships, reinforcing Ukraine's commitment to target vessels associated with Russia's shadow fleet, which operates in defiance of international sanctions. This military action not only threatens Russian oil shipments but also highlights Ukraine's resilience in its tactical responses to the conflict.
Ukrainian naval drones hit two oil tankers from Russia's so-called shadow fleet as they travelled through the Black Sea, Ukrainian officials have stated.
Verified footage shows waterborne drones speeding into the vessels, resulting in massive explosions and billowing black smoke.
The targeted tankers, the Kairos and Virat, both flagged to Gambia, were struck while off the Turkish coast. Reports indicate that the Virat was targeted a second time shortly after. No casualties have been reported.
This escalation by Ukraine aims to cripple Russia's oil revenues, crucial for funding its military activities in Ukraine.
These tankers are part of what is termed Russia's shadow fleet—a network of vessels used to evade Western sanctions post-2022 invasion of Ukraine. Many vessels in this fleet are outdated and have unclear ownership.
The Kairos and Virat were reportedly struck in different sectors of the Black Sea and are included in a sanctions list, with the attack suggesting a direct threat to ships transporting Russian oil.
It is believed that the attacks utilized Sea Baby drones, a specific type of naval drone developed by Ukraine’s SBU security service.
In addition, a major oil transporting consortium announced the suspension of loading operations at the Russian port of Novorossiysk due to significant damages inflicted by similar attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also revealed a diplomatic delegation led by top security official Rustem Umerov is headed to the US to continue negotiations aimed at resolving the war.
