Four Greek-operated tankers were targeted by drones in the Black Sea, raising alarms over regional security and energy supply chains.
The waters in the Black Sea are heating up. Four oil tankers operated by Greek companies, either waiting to load Kazakh oil or en route, were targeted by drones near the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal close to the Russian port of Novorossiysk.
Identities of Targeted Vessels and Companies
In the attack that occurred on January 13, 2026, the identities of the targeted vessels and their affiliated Greek shipping companies were determined as follows:
Delta Harmony: A fire broke out on the vessel operated by Greece-based Delta Tankers following the attack, but it was reported that the crew extinguished it quickly.
Matilda: The vessel managed by Thenamaris was confirmed to have been hit by two separate drones. Company officials stated that there was 'minor damage' to the deck structure of the vessel, but the crew was safe.
Freud: The tanker operated by TMS was also a target of the attacks.
Delta Supreme: This vessel, also part of the Delta Tankers fleet, was affected by the attack in the region.
Strategic Dimension and Background of the Attack
According to information reported by Reuters and United24 Media, no one has officially claimed responsibility for the attacks yet. However, Russian sources allege that Ukraine is behind the attacks. No official statement has been made by Ukraine so far.
This attack is seen as part of strategies aimed at disrupting Russia's energy exports, while the fact that the targeted vessels are 'Greek-operated' draws attention. The role of Western companies in Russian oil trade (or in the trade of Kazakh oil using Russian ports) has long been a topic of discussion. The presence of the vessels in the region to load Kazakh crude oil indicates that the attack could affect not only Russia but also a broader supply chain in energy markets.
Risk in the Region is Increasing
It was previously known that Ukraine had conducted operations against vessels referred to as the 'Shadow Fleet,' which were carrying Russian oil and circumventing sanctions. However, this attack signifies a change in the scope of the conflict by directly targeting modern tankers owned by Western (Greek) companies. Experts warn that such attacks will increase insurance premiums and make commercial navigation in the Black Sea even riskier.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
