Two Russian oil tankers, part of the so-called 'shadow fleet' used to bypass international sanctions, have been severely damaged following a Ukrainian naval drone attack in the Black Sea.
Details of the Drone Strike
The incident, which occurred on Saturday 29 November 2025, saw Ukraine deploy its domestically produced Sea Baby naval drones to target the tankers Kairos and Virat. An anonymous official from the Ukrainian security services confirmed the operation, stating the vessels were struck off the coast of Turkey.
The attack was swift and precise. The captain of the Virat tanker issued a distress call, explicitly reporting a 'drone attack' as the vessels were disabled and burst into flames. Turkish authorities swiftly initiated rescue operations, later confirming that all crew members were safely accounted for.
Financial and Strategic Impact
This successful strike had significant immediate consequences. The targeted tankers, both already under Western sanctions, were prevented from transporting oil with an estimated value of almost $70 million.
The primary aim of the operation, according to sources, was to directly curtail Russia's financial capabilities, which are heavily reliant on energy exports. By focusing on the 'shadow fleet', Ukraine continues its strategy of striking at the logistical networks that allow Moscow to circumvent economic penalties.
Ongoing Naval Conflict
This event underscores Ukraine's growing proficiency in conducting long-range naval strikes using explosives-packed marine drones. The use of the Sea Baby drone highlights the country's push for innovation in asymmetric warfare against a larger naval power.
These strikes represent a continued effort to challenge Russian dominance in the Black Sea and disrupt critical supply lines that fuel the ongoing conflict.
