Ukraine Targets Russian Shadow Fleet to Disrupt Oil Sales Amid Sanctions
Ukraine has reportedly launched attacks on several oil tankers associated with Russia's shadow fleet, aiming to disrupt Moscow's ability to evade international sanctions and continue its oil sales. These operations, which have taken place off the coasts of Turkey and West Africa, are part of Ukraine's broader strategy to undermine Russia's war funding. Ukrainian media, citing intelligence sources, reported that Ukrainian 'Sea Baby' drones targeted the sanctioned oil tankers Kairos and Virat in the Black Sea. The attacks are said to be a joint operation between Ukraine's Security Service and Navy. The Kairos, grounded off Bulgaria's coast, and the Virat were both hit in late November. These actions follow President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's call for stronger international responses to Russia's shadow fleet, which has been accused of violating sanctions and engaging in illicit activities.