Ukrainian maritime drones hit two oil tankers belonging to Russia’s so-called ‘shadow fleet’ in the Black Sea, while reports also indicated a strike on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal in Novorossiysk. According to Turkish authorities, the impacted vessels — *Kairos* and *Virat* — sail under the flag of Gambia and are listed under EU and UK sanctions for transporting Russian oil in violation of international restrictions. BBC Verify confirmed the authenticity of footage showing the drones approaching and detonating near the ships. Turkey stated the attacks occurred within its exclusive economic zone. The Ministry of Transport reported that the *Virat* sustained minor damage to its starboard side but remained stable; no casualties were reported. Published footage also shows Turkish rescue boats attempting to extinguish a fire on the *Kairos*. According to an unnamed Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) official, both tankers were empty and heading to the Russian terminal in Novorossiysk. The source said the Sea Baby drones disabled vessels that could have transported up to $70 million worth of oil, helping the Kremlin circumvent sanctions. Kazakhstan lodged a formal protest regarding the strike on the Novorossiysk terminal. Turkey strongly condemned the attacks, stressing that they posed a serious threat to navigation, human safety, property, and environmental security in the region. Russian authorities have not yet commented on the incident. The situation continues to develop.

Ukraine Hits Russia's ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tankers in the Black Sea and a Terminal in Novorossiysk. Kazakhstan and Turkey Protest