Ukraine struck two Russian oil tankers with naval drones, disrupting Moscow’s ability to supply its war effort and escalating maritime tensions in the Black Sea, officials said Saturday. The attacks targeted vessels allegedly part of a “shadow fleet” used to circumvent Western sanctions and transport oil, impacting Russia‘s revenue stream and logistical capabilities.the strikes represent a significant escalation in Ukraine’s naval campaign, demonstrating its growing capacity to project force and target Russian assets crucial to the conflict. As Western sanctions tighten and Russia seeks choice routes for oil exports, Ukraine is increasingly focused on disrupting these pathways, aiming to cripple Moscow’s financial resources and hinder its military operations.The incident raises concerns about potential retaliatory measures and further instability in the vital Black sea trade route.
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) confirmed the operation, stating the SIG tanker and the TNF tanker were hit Friday evening. Both vessels were reportedly unmanned at the time of the attack. The SBU provided a video appearing to show drones approaching and striking the tankers.”consequently of the operation, both enemy tankers were damaged. They received significant damage to critical components of the hull, which makes them unable to continue moving,” the SBU said in a statement.
Russia has not officially commented on the incident, but sources familiar with the matter confirmed the attacks.One source said the SIG tanker was carrying fuel for the Russian military.
The “shadow fleet” consists of aging tankers that have changed ownership and insurance to obscure thier origins and facilitate Russian oil exports despite sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union, and other nations following the invasion of Ukraine. These tankers often operate with limited clarity, turning off tracking systems to avoid detection.
“These tankers are vital for Russia to continue exporting oil and funding its war machine,” said maritime security analyst Yoruk Isik. “Targeting them is a direct blow to Russia’s economic capabilities.”