Key facts
- Ukraine's drone forces claim to have struck eight Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers in the Sea of Azov.
- The tankers were reportedly delivering fuel to Crimea.
- The vessels were described as being under international sanctions with a deadweight of approximately 7,000 tons.
- These strikes follow similar attacks on two other 'shadow fleet' vessels the previous day.
- Ukraine has increased attacks on logistics and energy infrastructure in Crimea.
Ukraine's drone forces reported striking eight tankers from Russia's 'shadow fleet' in the Sea of Azov overnight, as they were delivering fuel to Crimea. The Ukrainian military stated that these vessels were under international sanctions and each had a deadweight of approximately 7,000 tons. This action follows a similar claim from the same forces about hitting two other 'shadow fleet' vessels in the same area the previous day.
Ukraine has escalated its attacks on logistics and energy infrastructure in Crimea in recent weeks, contributing to fuel shortages and a state of emergency on the peninsula. The drone forces indicated that these strikes complicate the supply of fuel and ammunition necessary for Russian troops, particularly in occupied Crimea. Footage released by the unit appeared to show ships being targeted and catching fire, though Reuters could not independently verify the claims.
Kyiv has been urging allies to crack down on vessels circumventing sanctions by transporting Russian oil. Ukrainian forces have previously used sea drones to disable tankers carrying Russian oil in the Black Sea as part of a strategy to reduce Moscow's revenue. The report also notes a series of unexplained blasts on tankers that have docked at Russian ports, with Ukraine not confirming its involvement but maritime security sources suspecting its role.