Ukraine Hits Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tanker in Neutral Mediterranean Waters

The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has carried out its first strike on a tanker from Russia’s so-called shadow fleet in neutral waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Video of the operation was published by volunteer Serhii Sternenko, who supplies strike drones to the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

The attack was conducted using aerial strike drones, which targeted the tanker QENDIL.

According to the SSU, “as a result of a multi-stage operation in neutral waters of the Mediterranean Sea, SSU’s Alpha Group struck the tanker QENDIL with aerial unmanned systems.”

At the time of the special operation, the Russian vessel was not carrying any cargo and was empty.

Accordingly, the attack posed no threat to the environmental situation in the region. According to VesselFinder data, on December 19 the tanker was observed near the island of Crete. It was reported to be en route to an Egyptian port.

The tanker reportedly sustained critical damage and is no longer operational or fit for its intended use.