Ukrainian naval drones targeted two Russian oil tankers, identified as the Kairos and Virat, in the Black Sea, as reported by Ukrainian officials. Footage confirmed by the BBC shows the drones approaching the vessels before detonating, resulting in significant fires and smoke. Both tankers are flagged to Gambia and were struck near the Turkish coast, with the Virat allegedly targeted again the following day. No casualties were reported from these incidents.
The vessels are believed to be part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” a term used for the multitude of tankers that Russia employs to circumvent Western sanctions imposed following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Many of these ships are older and have unclear ownership and insurance details. The attacks on the Kairos and Virat occurred in different locations within the Black Sea and are part of a broader pattern that suggests an effort by Ukraine to undermine Russian oil revenues, which are essential for funding its ongoing military operations.
Ukrainian sources indicate that the drones involved were Sea Baby models, developed by the country’s security services, known as the SBU. Turkish authorities confirmed they were assisting the tankers and released footage showing efforts to extinguish the blaze on the Kairos.
In a separate development, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which transports oil from the Caspian region, announced a suspension of loading operations at the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk following an attack by unmanned boats that reportedly caused considerable damage.
Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that a delegation led by Rustem Umerov would be traveling to the United States for discussions aimed at resolving the conflict. This comes after the resignation of the previous chief negotiator, Andriy Yermak, amid an anti-corruption investigation. The Ukrainian team is scheduled to meet with U.S. officials in Florida.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp9ky5z2gx0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss