A Russian-flagged tanker transporting sunflower oil from Russia to Georgia has reported an attack while sailing near the Turkish coast, according to Turkey’s maritime authority on Tuesday.
The vessel, MIDVOLGA-2, was approximately 80 miles (130 km) off the Turkish shoreline when it issued a report of coming under attack. Despite the alarming incident, the tanker did not request assistance and continued its course toward Sinop port in northern Turkey. Turkish authorities confirmed that all 13 crew members were unharmed.
While official details remain limited, broadcaster NTV reported that the strike was carried out using a kamikaze drone.
When asked about the incident, a Turkish official said that “the necessary messages were conveyed to the relevant parties, including Ukrainian authorities,” but added no further insights.
This comes shortly after Ukrainian naval drones targeted two tankers last Friday that were sanctioned by Ukraine and several Western allies. Those vessels were en route to a Russian port to load oil for global markets as Kyiv attempts to intensify pressure on Russia’s oil industry.
On Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan called the attacks on commercial ships in the Black Sea unacceptable, issuing a strong warning to “all related sides.”
Turkey’s position in the conflict remains complex. As a NATO member, Ankara has supported Ukraine militarily, yet it has resisted joining Western sanctions against Moscow. It has served as a diplomatic bridge between the two nations, hosting multiple rounds of peace talks in Istanbul and continuously expressing willingness to facilitate a leaders’ meeting.
Ensuring navigational safety in the Black Sea remains one of Turkey’s top priorities, given its shared maritime borders with both Russia and Ukraine. The latest incident only underscores how fragile the security landscape has become.
