Ukrainian Defense Forces Hit Russian “Shadow Fleet” Tanker WEST Horizon in Black Sea

The Ukrainian Defense Forces have struck the WEST Horizon tanker, a vessel linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” in the Black Sea, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.

The military confirmed damage to the tanker’s propulsion and steering system, specifically its propeller and rudder assembly. The nature of the damage suggests the attack may have been performed using Ukrainian naval surface drones.

According to the General Staff, the tanker has been used to transport Russian oil and petroleum products in violation of international sanctions imposed on Moscow.

The Ukrainian military did not disclose when the strike occurred or what weapons were used. Data from the MarineTraffic vessel-tracking service shows that the tanker, which sails under the flag of Guinea-Bissau, was operating between Turkey and Russia.

The strike is part of Ukraine’s broader campaign against vessels associated with Russia’s “shadow fleet.” In early May, Ukrainian naval drones reportedly damaged two similar tankers near the entrance to the Port of Novorossiysk on Russia’s Black Sea coast.

President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the operation was carried out jointly by the Security Service of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of the General Staff.

“Our forces continue to enforce sanctions against Russia’s shadow oil fleet. They have struck two tankers operating near the entrance to the Port of Novorossiysk. These vessels were actively used to transport Russian oil. They will no longer be able to do so,” the President said.