On December 18, a series of Ukrainian drone attacks targeted the Russian port of Rostov-on-Don and the nearby town of Bataysk, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, including two crew members from a cargo ship. The Russian-flagged tanker Valeriy Gorchakov was identified as the vessel involved in the attacks, as reported by British maritime risk management firm Vanguard. Local officials confirmed that a fire on the ship was suppressed, and there was no oil product leakage.
Tensions between Ukraine and Russia have escalated, with both countries accusing each other of intentionally targeting civilian vessels. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of potential maritime isolation for Ukraine following attacks that damaged three tankers meant for oil exports to Russia.
In Bataysk, the drone strike led to the death of one person and injuries to seven others, with two private homes reported as damaged in the incident. The Valeriy Gorchakov is managed by Volgo-Balt Service, based on ship-tracking data.
This incident marks a continuation of the ongoing conflict, further straining relations between the two nations in the maritime domain.
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