The Security Service of Ukraine, in cooperation with the Ukrainian Navy, struck the “Louise 1” and “Banda” tankers in the Black Sea, vessels belonging to Russia’s “shadow fleet.” The ships, which are under Ukrainian sanctions, were targeted by SSU “Mamai” maritime drones.
The “Louise 1” tanker was involved in transporting Russian crude oil during the period of the G7 and EU oil embargo. The vessel transported oil from Russian ports in the Baltic and Black seas while disabling its automatic identification system. In 2026 alone, it reportedly transported nearly 3 million tonnes of Russian Urals crude oil.
The “Banda” tanker also transported Russian crude oil from the ports of Ust-Luga, Kerch, Novorossiysk, and Nakhodka.
During the SSU maritime drone attack, Russian aircraft attempted to engage the drones, firing machine guns and dropping bombs, but without success.
Strikes on “shadow fleet” vessels are aimed at systematically depriving the Kremlin of funds for the war. These tankers, despite international sanctions, transport Russian oil and generate billions of dollars in revenue for the aggressor state’s budget. Therefore, every strike against the “shadow fleet” is a direct blow to Russia’s ability to continue its aggression. Each such vessel, as part of Russia’s war machine, is considered a legitimate target.
Earlier, it was reported that last week an SSU Sea Baby maritime drone struck the sanctioned “Blue” tanker in Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea.
