Ukraine targeted two oil tankers hours before drones attacked Russia’s terminal in Novorossiysk.
The Caspian Pipeline Consortium halted operations after sea drones struck around 4AM, local media reported.
Officials say the strikes intensify pressure on Russia’s oil transport network amid ongoing conflict.
Crews Rescued After Explosions at Sea
Coast guard units quickly rescued all crew members following the attacks.
The Gambia-flagged Kairos exploded and caught fire 28 nautical miles off Kocaeli while traveling empty to Novorossiysk.
Soon after, the Virat suffered a strike about 35 nautical miles off the Turkish coast.
Authorities confirm both tankers belong to Russia’s fleet of aging ships used to bypass international sanctions.
Sanctions and Military Efforts Limit Russian Oil Revenue
OpenSanctions reports the US sanctioned Virat in January, followed by the EU, Switzerland, the UK, and Canada.
The EU imposed sanctions on Kairos in July, later joined by the UK and Switzerland.
A Ukrainian security official told AP that Kyiv used Sea Baby naval drones to strike tankers carrying oil worth over €60 million.
The official, speaking anonymously, said Ukrainian intelligence continues actively restricting Russia’s financial resources to wage war.
