Ukraine Strikes Russian Black Sea Tankers in Conflict Escalation

Ukrainian naval drones have targeted two oil tankers affiliated with Russia, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Black Sea. The vessels, identified as Kairos and Virat, were struck while traveling near the Turkish coast. The attacks took place on Friday, with reports indicating that the Virat was targeted again on Saturday. Fortunately, no casualties were reported following these incidents.

Details of the Attacks on Russian Tankers

The strikes involved Ukrainian Sea Baby drones, which are deployed by the country’s security services, known as SBU. This marked a notable shift in Ukraine’s tactics to undermine Russia’s oil revenues, crucial for its military operations. The Kairos was hit in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, while the Virat was struck further east in a central area.

• Tankers Involved:
  • Kairos
  • Virat
• Flags: Both tankers were flagged to Gambia.
• Incident Dates:
  • First attack: Friday
  • Second attack on Virat: Saturday

Both vessels are part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” a term used to describe older tankers navigating the waters to avoid sanctions imposed by Western nations since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. These tankers often operate under obscure ownership, making them difficult to track.

Response and Reactions

In a related development, Turkish authorities confirmed their assistance to the tankers during the incidents. They released footage showing efforts by Turkish boats to extinguish the fire on the Kairos.

This attack serves as a clear signal from Ukraine, indicating that any ships transporting Russian oil in the Black Sea could be at risk of similar actions, beyond just facing Western sanctions.

Impacts on Oil Transportation

Following the attacks, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium announced the suspension of oil loading operations at the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk. This decision came after significant damage occurred to a mooring point due to drone strikes. The consortium includes major stakeholders from Russia and Kazakhstan, along with Western firms such as Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and Shell.

Kazakh Foreign Minister Aibek Smadiyarov expressed serious concerns about the situation, highlighting it as the third attack on oil transport operations. He called for Ukraine to take measures to avoid future incidents, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable energy supply.

Diplomatic Developments

In the midst of military engagements, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a delegation led by security official Rustem Umerov is heading to the U.S. for ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict. This follows the resignation of Andriy Yermak, the previous chief negotiator, after the search of his apartment by anti-corruption investigators.

The Ukrainian delegation is scheduled to meet U.S. officials in Florida shortly, while discussions are also anticipated in Moscow with Steve Witkoff, a diplomat for the previous U.S. administration.