Watch Russian ‘shadow fleet’ vessels burst into flames after Ukrainian attack

WorldPolitics
30 Nov 2025 • 12:52 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Ukraine reportedly deployed its domestically produced Sea Baby naval drones to target two Russian oil tankers, Kairos and Virat, in the Black Sea.
  • An anonymous Ukrainian security services official confirmed the strikes, which occurred off Turkey's Black Sea coast, stating the vessels were part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' used to circumvent international sanctions.
  • The targeted tankers, both under Western sanctions, were disabled by the drones, preventing the transport of oil worth almost $70 million and aiming to curtail Russia's financial capabilities.
  • Turkish authorities initiated rescue operations, confirming all crew members were safe, and the captain of the Virat tanker issued a distress call reporting a 'drone attack'.
  • The incidents highlight Ukraine's ongoing efforts to conduct successful naval strikes against Russian shipping, particularly using explosives-packed marine drones.

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