Over the past week, Black Sea maritime incidents have dramatically increased as Ukrainian operations targeted Russia-affiliated tankers while an alleged Russian drone strike hit a Turkish cargo ship, raising alarm for regional trade stability.
Ukrainian Strikes on Russia-Linked Tankers
On December 10, Ukrainian sea drones disabled the Gambian-flagged tanker Dashan in the southern Black Sea as it transited Ukraine's exclusive economic zone en route to Russia's Novorossiysk port. The vessel, part of Moscow's shadow fleet and under Western sanctions, sustained critical stern damage from explosions despite traveling at maximum speed with transponders off. No casualties were reported, and the strike marked the third such action in two weeks aimed at curbing Russia's oil exports.
Earlier incidents included attacks on November 28 targeting Gambian-flagged tankers Kairos and Virat near Türkiye, and on November 29 against Russia's Port of Novorossiysk, damaging the Caspian Pipeline Consortium mooring facility. These operations highlight a pattern of targeting vessels supporting Russia's sanctioned oil trade.
Attack of Russian Tanker Midvolga-2
On December 2, the Russian-owned tanker Midvolga-2 was struck by drones approximately 80 miles off Türkiye's northern coast while carrying sunflower oil from Russia to Georgia. The vessel, with 13 crew aboard, sustained damage but continued under its own power to Türkiye's Sinop port without requesting aid. Ukraine denied involvement, leaving responsibility unattributed amid a series of four attacks on Russia-linked ships in under a week.
Turkish officials confirmed drone involvement despite President Erdogan's criticisms regarding threats to navigation safety. Mersin's besiktas Shipping announced they will stop all voyages relating to Russia due to mounting risks.
Turkish Vessel VIVA Targeted
On December 13, Ukraine reported a drone attack on the Turkish-flagged cargo vessel VIVA carrying sunflower oil in Ukraine's exclusive economic zone, bound for Egypt with 11 Turkish crew members. The Ukrainian Navy stated the strike occurred beyond air defense range, possibly from a Ukrainian port, but caused no serious damage or injuries. The vessel proceeded to its destination, with rescue services alerted and contact maintained with the captain.
Separate reports on December 12 indicated a Russian drone strike had destroyed a Turkish-flagged vessel at Odesa port, with pro-Russian sources alleging Ukraine military use for it. Special services secured the site amid wider regional attacks.
Industry Consequences and Warnings
Following the tanker attacks, Black Sea shipping insurance rates spiked as insurers reassess policies amid spill-over from the Ukraine conflict. Besiktas Shipping's decision to halt dealings with Russia reflects growing wariness among operators.
Ankara issued warnings of potential escalation after Turkish vessels were attacked near Turkiye's coast, endangering safe navigation and energy trade routes that are essential to global markets.