Ukrainian sea drones successfully targeted and disabled a tanker connected to the trade of Russian oil as it navigated through Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea, headed toward Novorossiysk, a Russian port. This incident, which occurred on Wednesday, marks the third sea drone strike targeted at vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” within just two weeks. These unregulated ships, according to Ukrainian officials, play a significant role in supporting Moscow’s oil exports and funding its military efforts in Ukraine, despite existing Western sanctions.
The vessel, identified as the Dashan, was reportedly sailing at maximum speed with its transponders turned off when powerful explosions struck its stern, causing critical damage. Officials from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) have not commented on potential casualties from the attack. The tanker is under European Union and British sanctions and was operating without a flag registry. Video footage revealed the moment the naval drones reached the tanker, followed by significant explosions.
The incident was further corroborated by maritime security sources, and Reuters verified the tanker’s identity by examining its deck and structural features against archival images. The SBU has stressed the importance of these strikes in reducing Russia’s oil revenue, which is vital for funding its military operations. Over the past fortnight, three tankers linked to this shadow fleet have been incapacitated.
In response to these attacks, Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to cut off Ukraine’s access to the Black Sea, denouncing the strikes on tankers as acts of piracy. Additionally, Ukraine has been engaged in attacks on Russian oil refineries for months, utilizing long-range aerial drones aimed at critical targets behind the front lines. Notably, there have been previous blasts involving other tankers calling at Russian ports since December 2024, with suspicions pointing towards the use of limpet mines, although Kyiv has not officially acknowledged its involvement.
As the situation develops, the conflict continues to escalate, with increased insurance costs for vessels in the Black Sea reflecting the heightened risks associated with shipping in the region.
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