Ukraine targeted two oil tankers only hours before drones attacked a major Russian terminal.
Sea drones struck the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal in Novorossiysk around 4AM, forcing immediate suspension, local media reported.
The attacks follow Ukraine’s claim of hitting two tankers off Turkey’s Black Sea coast.
Swift Rescue After Tanker Explosions
Coast guard and rescue teams saved both crews following extensive emergency operations.
The Gambia-flagged Kairos exploded and caught fire 28 nautical miles off Kocaeli while traveling empty to Novorossiysk.
Officials reported the Virat suffered a strike 35 nautical miles off the Turkish coast shortly after.
Authorities say both vessels form part of Russia’s sanctioned fleet, used to bypass oil export restrictions.
Sanctions and Military Measures Target Russian Oil
OpenSanctions notes the US sanctioned Virat in January, followed by the EU, Switzerland, the UK, and Canada.
The EU sanctioned Kairos in July, with the UK and Switzerland following soon after.
A Ukrainian security official confirmed Kyiv used Sea Baby naval drones to hit tankers carrying oil worth over €60 million.
The official, speaking anonymously, stated Ukrainian intelligence continues efforts to limit Russia’s financial means for war.
