On Friday, November 28, explosions rocked two tankers connected to Russia's shadow fleet near the Bosphorus Strait in the Black Sea, triggering fires on the vessels.
The tankers, known for transporting Russian oil discreetly, were attacked close to one of the world's busiest maritime chokepoints, raising tensions in the region.
Officials reported rapid containment efforts, but details about the scale of damage or casualties remain limited.
These attacks come amid ongoing disputes and economic sanctions targeting Russia's energy exports. The shadow fleet has been a key method for Russia to bypass restrictions, making these vessels strategic targets.
The Black Sea's geopolitical significance adds complexity, as Türkiye controls the Bosphorus, linking the Black Sea to the Mediterranean trade routes.
This incident highlights increasing risks to shadow fleet operations that attempt to evade sanctions, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions affecting maritime security.