Ukraine claims to have struck nine more Russian shadow fleet tankers in the Sea of Azov overnight, bringing the total number of vessels hit in the past 72 hours to 21, according to reports. The tally includes 19 tankers, one cargo ship, and one ferry. The figures are not independently verified.
Ukraine reported striking nine more Russian shadow fleet tankers in the Sea of Azov overnight, bringing the total number of vessels claimed to have been hit in the past 72 hours to 21, according to a Ukrainian military statement early Wednesday, July 8. The tally comprises 19 tankers, one cargo ship, and one ferry in Kerch. The claims are not independently verified.
The new report follows a series of Ukrainian claims on Tuesday, July 7, that The Zioneer tracked throughout the day. At 11:48 Jerusalem on Tuesday, The Zioneer reported that Ukrainian military sources claimed to have destroyed 10 Russian vessels, including eight shadow fleet tankers, a dry cargo ship, and a supply ferry. Earlier that day, reports had cited 12 tankers struck, then seven tankers and one cargo ship. The figures have not been independently corroborated, and no official confirmation from Russia has been reported.
The strikes are part of a sustained Ukrainian campaign against the Russian shadow fleet — vessels used to transport oil without Western insurance and in violation of price caps. As The Zioneer reported on July 6, Ukraine's Security Service confirmed strikes on two Russian tankers and S-400 launchers in the Sea of Azov. On June 5, The Zioneer reported that Ukrainian drone forces struck five Russian cargo ships in ports along the Sea of Azov. On June 10, Ukraine announced a strike on a shadow fleet tanker in the Black Sea. The campaign has expanded in scale in recent days.
The extent of damage to the vessels and any casualties remain unconfirmed. Independent verification of the claims is still pending.
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