Ukraine Claims Responsibility for Black Sea Tanker Attacks
ISTANBUL – Ukraine’s security service (SBU) claimed responsibility Friday for explosions that damaged two oil tankers in the Black Sea, asserting its naval drones successfully targeted the vessels. The attacks occurred off the Turkish coast, prompting the rescue of all 45 crew members from the ships, the “Virat” and the “Kairos.”
The SBU alleges both tankers were en route to Novorossiysk, Russia, to load petroleum products and were part of the “Russian shadow fleet” – a network used to circumvent international sanctions on Russian oil exports. An SBU representative presented video footage purportedly showing naval drones approaching and striking the two ships.
Turkish authorities reported fires broke out on the Gambian-flagged “Virat” and “Kairos” on Friday. According to the SBU, the “Kairos” was traveling without cargo towards Novorossiysk while the “Virat” had recently unloaded cargo en route to the same port.
Ukraine’s claim comes amid heightened tensions in the Black Sea following Russia’s withdrawal from a UN-brokered grain deal, raising concerns about maritime security and global food supplies. The “shadow fleet” has become a focal point of Western efforts to enforce sanctions against Russia, as it allows Moscow to continue exporting oil despite restrictions.
Source: ntv.de, als/AFP
