Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian 'Shadow Fleet' Oil Tankers in Black Sea

Recent Drone Attacks Target Russian Oil Tankers

On November 28, 2025, Ukrainian forces reportedly utilized Sea Baby naval drones to attack two Russian oil tankers, the Kairos and the Virat, in the Black Sea. The strikes occurred off Turkey's Black Sea coast, within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Both vessels are alleged to be part of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' a network of ships used to circumvent international sanctions imposed following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) sources confirmed the operation, stating it was a joint effort with the Ukrainian Navy.

Details of the Strikes and Reported Damage

The targeted tankers were reportedly empty and en route to the Russian port of Novorossiysk to load oil cargo. According to Ukrainian sources, the drones 'successfully completed their work on the ships,' resulting in critical damage. Specifically:

• The Kairos suffered an explosion and fire, rendering the vessel disabled. Its crew was evacuated.
• The Virat was struck near its engine room and sustained minor damage to its starboard side above the waterline. While reported to be in stable condition, it was reportedly hit a second time on November 29.

All crew members on both tankers were reported safe following the incidents.

The 'Shadow Fleet' and Sanctions Evasion

The Kairos and Virat are identified as components of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' which consists of hundreds of vessels operating with opaque ownership and flags of convenience to transport Russian oil despite Western restrictions. Both tankers were already under Western sanctions, with the Kairos sanctioned by the EU, UK, and Switzerland, and the Virat by the US, EU, Switzerland, UK, and Canada. Ukraine claims these attacks deal 'a significant blow to Russian oil transportation' and impede Moscow's efforts to finance its war.

International Reactions and Broader Context

The Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed 'concern' over the incidents, highlighting the 'serious risks to the safety of navigation, life, property, and the environment in the region' within its Exclusive Economic Zone. Turkish rescue services were involved in responding to the attacks. Russia has condemned the attacks, though a detailed response has yet to be formulated. These recent strikes are part of an ongoing Ukrainian campaign targeting Russian maritime assets. Previous incidents include the August 2023 attack on the SIG tanker near the Kerch Strait and the March 2024 destruction of the Mekhanik Pogodin, which Russia was reportedly using as a command post.