“RFE/RL’s source notes that during the attack, the sanctioned vessels were empty – they were headed for loading at the port of Novorossiysk”, — write: www.radiosvoboda.org
“This was a joint operation of the 13th Main Directorate of Military Counterintelligence of the SBU with the Navy of Ukraine. Modernized Sea Baby marine drones were successfully deployed on ships. They can cover long distances and are equipped with reinforced combat units,” said the source, who wished to remain anonymous because he is not authorized to comment officially on the situation.
The RFE/RL source notes that during the attack, the sanctioned vessels were empty – they were on their way to the port of Novorossiysk for loading.
“The SBU continues active actions to curtail Russia’s financial capabilities to wage war against Ukraine. Sea Baby marine drones disabled ships that could transport oil worth almost $70 million and helped the Kremlin to circumvent international sanctions,” said an informed RFE/RL source in the SBU.
Earlier, the Turkish authorities reported fires on two oil tankers in the Black Sea – probably due to “external influence”. Both vessels are under Western sanctions as part of Russia’s “shadow fleet”.
“The empty tanker KAIROS next to the Russian port of Novorossiysk signaled a fire on board 28 miles from our coast, probably due to external influence. The condition of 25 crew members is good. Our rescue forces have been sent to the area to evacuate the sailors, the situation is under control,” the message says.
A second vessel, the VIRAT, said it was hit about 35 nautical miles offshore in the Black Sea, according to Turkish officials.
“Rescue teams and a commercial vessel were dispatched to the scene. All 20 crew members on board are in good condition, heavy smoke was found in the engine room. The situation is under control,” says the Turkish Ministry of Transport.
There are currently no official comments from the Russian side.