Ukraine conducts a long-range drone attack on a tanker linked to Russia's shadow fleet, marking a significant escalation in maritime operations.
Ukraine has launched a long-range drone attack on an oil tanker linked to what is referred to as Russia's "shadow fleet." This operation marks the first confirmed attack by Ukraine at such a distance from the Black Sea.
The target of the attack was the Oman-flagged Aframax tanker Qendil, located in international waters of the Mediterranean, more than 2,000 kilometers away from Ukrainian territory. The operation was reportedly carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
According to security firm Vanguard and Ukrainian sources, the tanker, which has a deadweight tonnage of 115,400 dwt, sustained heavy damage and is currently rendered inoperable. The tanker, owned by Qendil Marina and built in 2006, was empty at the time of the attack. There were no reports of injuries or environmental pollution from the incident.
The Kiev administration stated that the vessel was being used to circumvent international sanctions and support Russian oil logistics. For this reason, Ukrainian officials classify the tanker as a legitimate military target in wartime assessments. It is reported that Qendil is part of a covert fleet used to keep Russian oil outside of Western controls.
While there has been no independent verification from Russian officials regarding the incident, Moscow has also not made a public statement. However, video footage purportedly showing the attack continues to circulate through open sources and social media, bolstering Ukraine's claims.
Previously, Kiev had alleged that similar attacks were carried out against Russia-linked tankers near Turkey's Black Sea coast following the explosions of two empty oil tankers.
This attack demonstrates a significant expansion of Ukraine's operational reach in maritime operations. Until now, Ukraine's maritime drone operations have largely been confined to the Black Sea and, more recently, the Sea of Azov.
