Ukrainian forces struck two Russian "shadow fleet" oil tankers on Sunday morning [1], [2].

The operation targets the maritime infrastructure Russia uses to bypass international sanctions. By hitting these vessels, Ukraine aims to disrupt the transport of oil that funds the Russian military effort.

The strikes occurred at the entrance to the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk [1], [2]. While some reports suggest different locations or a higher number of vessels hit, primary reports from the Kyiv Independent and RTE News confirm two tankers were targeted [1], [2].

These "shadow fleet" vessels are typically older ships that operate without standard insurance or transparency to evade price caps and sanctions. The Ukrainian military targeted these specific ships to degrade Russia's ability to export energy resources via the Black Sea.

President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the operation on social media. "These tankers had been actively used to transport oil — not anymore," Zelensky said [1].

The attack on the Novorossiysk port entrance marks a continued effort by Ukraine to extend the conflict into Russian territory and disrupt economic lifelines. The port serves as a critical hub for Russian oil exports, making it a strategic target for long-range strikes.

Military officials said the goal was to disrupt vessels that had been used to transport Russian oil [1], [2]. The operation reflects a broader strategy to isolate Russia economically by targeting the logistics of its energy sector.

“"These tankers had been actively used to transport oil — not anymore."”

This strike demonstrates Ukraine's evolving capability to target the 'shadow fleet,' a clandestine network of tankers that allows Russia to maintain oil revenues despite Western sanctions. By shifting the focus toward these specific logistical assets in the Black Sea, Ukraine is attempting to create a financial bottleneck for the Kremlin, increasing the risk and cost for any vessel attempting to transport Russian crude.