Tensions Soar: Drone Attacks on Black Sea Tankers

Drone attacks were reported on three tankers in the Black Sea near Turkey's northern coast. The vessels, under Palau and Sierra Leone flags, were engaged in ship-to-ship operations. All crew members were reported safe. Responsibility for the attack remains unclaimed amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine tensions.

Drone attacks occurred on three tankers in the Black Sea on Thursday, near Turkey's northern coast, as reported by shipping agency Tribeca. The attack included the James II tanker, operating under the Palau flag, which was around 50 miles north of the Turkeli Area.

Additionally, the tankers Altura and Velora, both under the Sierra Leone flag, were also attacked while engaged in ship-to-ship operations nearby. Coastal safety boats were dispatched for assistance, and all crew members were confirmed to be in good condition.

The incident adds to the ongoing hostilities between Moscow and Kyiv, with ports and tankers frequently targeted since Russia's invasion of Ukraine over four years ago. Neither nation has claimed responsibility, and Turkey's transport ministry was unavailable for comment due to the Muslim Eid holiday.