Greece Urges Heightened Security for Ships Amid Black Sea Threats

Greece's shipping ministry has advised its shipping fleet to enhance security to the highest level when approaching Russian Black Sea ports. This follows drone attacks on Greek-operated tankers, illustrating the high risks in the area where the Black Sea is shared among multiple countries, including Russia and Ukraine.

Following recent drone attacks on two tankers, Greece has advised its shipping fleet to elevate security to the highest level when navigating towards Russian Black Sea ports. The shipping ministry released advisories urging precautionary measures in light of these hostile actions.

Two Greek-operated tankers, one chartered by American oil giant Chevron, were targeted by drones as they approached the Caspian Pipeline Consortium's marine terminal. The Greek fleet, a major player in global shipping, has been essential for trade across the geopolitically sensitive Black Sea.

Precautionary steps include keeping crew members within ships and updating threat assessments. These advisories emphasize heightened vigilance, especially after the attack on one tanker, Matilda, managed by Thenamaris. War insurance rates for vessels in the Black Sea have surged due to growing risks, echoing the unstable conditions since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)