A Russian-flagged tanker has come under attack in the Black Sea near the Turkish coast, in a fresh incident highlighting the ongoing risks to commercial shipping in the region. Turkish authorities confirmed the event on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025, stating the vessel's crew emerged unharmed.
Details of the Maritime Incident
The vessel in question, the MIDVOLGA-2, was reportedly carrying a cargo of sunflower oil. According to Turkey's Maritime Affairs Directorate, the tanker reported being attacked approximately 80 miles (130 km) from the Turkish coastline. Despite the incident, the ship did not request assistance and instead proceeded towards the port of Sinop on Turkey's northern coast.
While official details on the weapon used were initially sparse, Turkish broadcaster NTV reported that the assault involved a kamikaze drone. A Turkish official, speaking on the matter, noted that "the necessary messages were conveyed to the relevant parties, including Ukrainian authorities", but provided no further elaboration.
Regional Tensions and Diplomatic Warnings
This attack follows a pattern of escalating maritime threats. Just last Friday, Ukrainian naval drones struck two sanctioned tankers in the Black Sea as they headed to a Russian port. Kyiv has targeted vessels linked to Russia's oil industry in an effort to apply economic pressure.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan issued a stark warning on Monday. He declared that attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea were "unacceptable" and directed his message to "all related sides".
Turkey's Delicate Diplomatic Balancing Act
President Erdogan's comments came shortly after a meeting with Pope Leo XIV, where they discussed the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The Pope emphasised Turkey's "important role" in both crises and expressed hope for further dialogue aimed at achieving ceasefires.
As a NATO member that maintains relations with both Kyiv and Moscow, Turkey has walked a diplomatic tightrope. It has provided military aid to Ukraine but refrained from joining Western sanctions against Russia. Ankara, which shares maritime borders with both nations, has repeatedly offered to host peace talks and stressed the critical importance of Black Sea navigational safety.
The attack on the MIDVOLGA-2 underscores the persistent volatility in the region and the challenges facing international efforts to secure vital trade routes.
