Ukraine reported that Russia is using tankers to transport Russian oil and petroleum products, bypassing international sanctions, while passenger transport provides military logistics for Russia.
Damage to the Russian Fleet
The head of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert Brovdy, noted that during the current week, from Monday to Sunday, the number of damaged vessels of the Russian 'ghost fleet' in the Sea of Azov reached 90. This includes tankers, tugboats, ferries, and bulk carriers.
Consequences of the Attacks
According to media reports on Saturday, after Ukrainian attacks on tankers, Russia temporarily suspended navigation through the Don-Azov Sea channel, which connects the Don River with the Sea of Azov. Brovdy commented that movement through the Kerch Strait appears to have been interrupted, as this strait separates Crimea from Russia and provides access to the Sea of Azov.
Systematic attacks on tankers and oil refineries have forced Moscow to limit fuel consumption among the civilian population and begin purchasing refined products abroad.