Ukraine hits Russian tankers: Shadow fleet targeted

Ukraine hits Russian tankers in a series of coordinated drone strikes that disrupted maritime operations and intensified pressure on Russia’s wartime logistics. Several Russian oil tankers were hit with simultaneous drone strikes, and the crew of the Virat was able to recognize that there was danger based on communications on open frequencies. In addition to using the radio, they also issued a sternly worded distress call detailing the impending attacks from unmanned vessels. As a result, their distress call was sent out worldwide, using terms such as: “This is VIRAT. Help needed! Drone attack! Mayday!”Local law enforcement has already confirmed the incident involving numerous assaults over the weekend.

Ukraine targeted two of the sanctioned Russian crude oil tankers. These two ships had been travelling through the contested waterways despite the risks involved. In addition, both of these vessels were reported to be part of the Russian shadow fleet as per information obtained by law enforcement. Analysts believe that this fleet is supporting the Russian wartime economy. Intelligence reports confirm that both the SBU and Ukrainian navy were involved in the planning and execution of these attacks using Sea Baby drones. The attacks have significantly escalated the level of pressure on Russia’s statewide maritime network.

Investigators assess damage while Ukraine confirms responsibility

Preliminary assessments indicated minimal damage to Virat by the authorities. Later statements indicated increasing problems with offshore areas. The Turkish Government also released Executive statements confirming a second day of strike events. They stated: “The Virat, which was previously said to have been attacked by unmanned maritime vehicles approximately 35 nautical miles off the Black Sea coastline, was attacked again by unmanned maritime vehicles early this morning”.

Investigating Teams were reviewing the debris field/fallout for the hull of the vessel. The pattern of debris showed evidence that the cause of damage was drone activity. According to the Turkish Government spokesperson for communications, Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu indicated that drone strike activity had originated from multiple points. He said: “An external impact means the vessel was hit by a mine, a rocket, or a similar projectile, or perhaps by a drone, or by an unmanned underwater vehicle. These are the first things that come to mind.”

Officials confirmed stable conditions aboard the Virat. Moreover, they reported safe crew health after evacuations.CNN cited Ukrainian sources confirming successful drone hits. They claimed both ships suffered critical functional losses. Furthermore, the source stressed heavy disruption to Russian oil movement. The message stated:“This will deal a significant blow to the transportation of Russian oil”.

Ukraine argued these missions weaken Moscow’s sanction-evading operations. Analysts said Russia relies heavily on reflagged tankers today.

ALSO READ: Defence, energy and trade to dominate Modi–Putin talks next week

Strategic implications intensify as Ukraine hits Russian tankers and maritime risks rise

Observations from tracking data suggest that Virat is changing course. Speed reductions were recorded by observers after the vessel sustained initial damage. The officials reported that above the waterline, damage was limited. However, early images showed large burning sections of the vessel while offshore. Analysts noted that the level of instability was increasing across the shadow fleets and that Turkish authorities have stated that neither vessel was in Turkish territorial waters.

According to Ukrainian sources, the operation was intended to target vessels that were violating embargoes. Each tanker was registered in Gambia while in transit. Furthermore, previous Western sanctions against Virat indicate that it had violated those sanctions. Experts say that these sanctions drastically reduce access to global ports for vessels such as Virat. The attacks have increased the level of risk for all shipping activity in the region. Therefore, it is likely that insurers will need to review their coverage of all shipping activity in the Black Sea in the near future. Some analysts are concerned about the impact of additional attacks on the structure of the energy logistics in the maritime space.

For more- https://civiclens.in/category/international-news/