In a significant escalation of maritime warfare, Ukraine has successfully targeted two Russian civilian oil tankers, the Kairos and the Virat, using marine drones in the Black Sea. An anonymous official from Ukraine's SBU security service confirmed the details of the operation to Reuters on Saturday, stating it was a joint effort with the Ukrainian Navy aimed at disrupting Moscow's ability to export oil while bypassing Western sanctions.
Details of the Drone Strike
The official revealed that both vessels were empty and en route to the major Russian oil terminal port of Novorossiysk when they were struck. Video footage from the scene confirmed that both tankers sustained critical damage and were effectively taken out of service, dealing a substantial blow to Russian oil transportation logistics. The incidents occurred within Turkey's exclusive economic zone, raising international concerns.
Turkey's Response and Confusion
Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu provided a detailed account, noting initial confusion. Rescue teams first received information that the Kairos might have hit a mine, but it was later clarified that an explosion occurred on the Virat. The captain of the Virat tanker issued a distress call explicitly citing a 'drone attack.' Minister Uraloğlu stated that the explosions were caused by "external interference," listing potential causes as a mine, missile, marine vessel, or drone. Turkish authorities are now in contact with counterparts to ensure navigational safety and prevent future incidents.
The 'Shadow Fleet' and Global Sanctions
According to the OpenSanctions database, both the Kairos and Virat are part of a Russian "shadow fleet" used to circumvent restrictions imposed after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The United States sanctioned the Virat in January 2024, followed by the EU, UK, and Canada. The EU also sanctioned the Kairos in July 2024. This fleet generates multibillion-dollar revenues for the Kremlin, often disguising activities under third-country flags and using complex ownership schemes. Data shows these vessels have docked at ports in China, Turkey, and India, frequently switching off their automatic identification systems to avoid detection.
Rescue operations were swiftly launched. All 25 crew members aboard the Kairos and all 20 crew aboard the Virat were safely evacuated, despite heavy smoke reported in the Virat's engine room. This attack underscores Ukraine's continued strategy to target Russian shipping and its calls for tougher international action against the shadow fleet that funds Moscow's war efforts.
