Khaberni - Ukraine announced today, Saturday, its responsibility for the attack on two ships off the coast of Turkey in the Black Sea, claiming they are part of the "shadow fleet" that transports sanctioned Russian oil.
Two explosions shocked the tankers "Furat" and "Kiros," both flying the Gambian flag, last night, Friday, according to the Turkish Ministry of Transport. The ministry added that one of them was attacked again this Saturday morning.
According to the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Ukrainian officials, the attack was carried out with sea drones. The Ukrainian Security Service released a video showing sea drones heading towards the ships followed by explosions.
Advanced Sea Drones
The attack was carried out using "updated CBee sea drones," according to what was relayed to Agence France-Presse from a source in the Ukrainian Security Service, who confirmed that the drones hit the ships.
The operation was a joint effort of the Security Service and the Ukrainian Navy, according to what Reuters reported from an official in the service.
The official, who requested anonymity, said, "Video footage shows significant damage to the tankers after they were targeted, and they are practically out of service." He added, "This will deliver a significant blow to Russian oil transport operations."
No immediate comment was issued by Moscow, as per Ukrainian sources.
Attack Outcomes
The Turkish Ministry of Transport stated that the ship "Furat" was attacked by sea drones twice, on Friday evening, and Saturday morning, approximately 35 nautical miles (about 65 kilometers) off the Turkish coast.
The ministry added in a statement that the ship "suffered minor damage on its right side above the waterline," confirming "no fire broke out on board and the crew is safe."
Meanwhile, the ship "Kiros" caught fire on Friday evening about 28 nautical miles (about 52 kilometers) off the Turkish coast following the explosion.
Turkish Minister of Transport, Abdul Qadir Oral Oghlu, announced the safe evacuation of 25 crew members.
This operation comes within the context of reciprocal attacks between Ukraine and Russia as battles intensify along the frontlines in eastern Ukraine, and amidst Kyiv's rejection of American proposals to end the war which involve ceding territory in the Donbas region to Moscow.
