Ukraine has reported targeting an additional 12 tankers in southern Russia, escalating attacks that are contributing to a nationwide fuel shortage. The Ukrainian military, in a Telegram update, affirmed that the strikes in the Sea of Azov were aimed at vessels supplying fuel to Russian forces and circumventing sanctions on crude exports. A tugboat and dry cargo ship were also reportedly hit, though Bloomberg has not independently confirmed these claims.
Earlier statements from Yury Slyusar, the governor of the Rostov region, noted that two tankers in Taganrog Bay experienced mechanical damage and subsequently caught fire, though one of the fires was extinguished. Ukraine’s recent offensive against Russian energy infrastructure has intensified, targeting not only tankers but also oil refineries and fuel depots to disrupt the Kremlin’s oil supply and encourage negotiations.
The attacks have led to the shutdown of key refineries, resulting in severe gasoline shortages, particularly in southern Russia and occupied areas of Ukraine. In response, the Russian government has imposed bans on most fuel exports to bolster internal supplies. Regional leaders, including Igor Artamonov of the Lipetsk region, have called for urgent action from major oil companies to address the growing fuel crisis, emphasizing its impact on public safety and essential services.
