Ukraine has reportedly struck several oil tankers off the coasts of Turkey and West Africa in a new offensive aimed at undermining Russian finances for the war. This attack follows President Zelenskyy’s appeals to international partners for stronger action against Russian vessels circumventing sanctions. The Ukrainian media, citing intelligence sources, indicated that these operations occurred outside Russian territorial waters.
Historically, Ukraine has targeted Russian ports and oil infrastructure, and the latest attacks involved the oil tankers Kairos and Virat using SeaBaby drones in the Black Sea. These operations were coordinated with Ukraine’s Security Service. The Kairos, reported to carry about $70 million worth of oil, ran aground off Bulgaria on December 5, creating difficulties for rescuing its crew due to bad weather.
In a separate incident, the Mersin tanker experienced multiple explosions while anchored off Senegal, prompting the crew’s rescue. While not currently sanctioned, the Mersin has been involved in risky oil transfers.
Despite the European sanctions on many vessels in the so-called "shadow fleet," a unified EU plan to inspect suspicious ships has not been implemented. Additionally, incidents of hybrid warfare tactics, including drone sightings linked to Russian activities, have raised concerns among European allies.
