Ukrainian naval drones hit two oil tankers from Russia's so-called shadow fleet as they travelled through the Black Sea, Ukrainian officials have said. Verified footage shows waterborne drones speeding through the waves into the vessels, before detonating into a ball of flame, sending black smoke into the air. The targeted tankers were named by Turkish authorities as the Kairos and Virat, both flagged to Gambia. Both were hit off the Turkish coast on Friday, with the Virat reportedly struck again on Saturday. No casualties were reported. The attacks appear to be an escalation by Kyiv as it tries to hit Russia's oil revenues, which are critical for funding its war in Ukraine.
Ukraine Escalates Tensions with Naval Drone Strikes on Russian Tankers
Ukraine Escalates Tensions with Naval Drone Strikes on Russian Tankers
Ukrainian forces have targeted and successfully hit two tankers associated with Russia’s clandestine oil operations in the Black Sea, marking a significant escalation in naval confrontations.
In a remarkable escalation of hostilities, Ukraine has deployed naval drones to strike two Russian oil tankers traversing the Black Sea. The assault, which targeted vessels within Russia's shadow fleet, aims to undermine the critical oil revenues that fuel its military endeavors against Ukraine. Verified footage shows the drones detonating upon impact, igniting flames and smoke. This act signals a potential shift in the naval landscape of the conflict, where Ukraine warns that ships aiding in Russian oil transportation will face imminent threats. As talks persist for a ceasefire, the conflict's maritime front intensifies.
