In a concerning development in the Black Sea, three tankers were reportedly attacked by drones on Thursday, according to the shipping agency Tribeca. The incidents occurred near Turkey’s northern coast, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.

Details of the Incident

The tanker James II, sailing under the Palau flag and in ballast, was approximately 50 miles north of the Turkeli Area when it was attacked. Additionally, the tankers Altura and Velora, both under the Sierra Leone flag, were targeted in a nearby area during a ship-to-ship operation. Fortunately, all crew members aboard the tankers were reported to be in good condition.

Regional Tensions

The Black Sea has been a focal point of conflict since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine over four years ago. Both Moscow and Kyiv have frequently targeted each other’s ports and tankers, though neither country has claimed responsibility for this latest incident. The Turkish transport ministry has not commented on the attacks, as the incidents coincided with the Muslim Eid holiday.

Coastal safety boats were dispatched to assist the affected vessels, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by maritime operations in the region. The situation remains tense, with international observers closely monitoring developments.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.