An empty tanker was damaged and caught fire after being struck by a drone while entering the Azov-Black Sea canal in southern Russia.

Rostov Region Governor Yury Slyusar confirmed the incident, stating there were no casualties and no threat of an oil leak.

The attack highlights the ongoing vulnerability of maritime infrastructure in the Black Sea region.

While the immediate environmental impact appears contained, the incident adds to growing concerns over shipping safety as Ukrainian drones have increasingly targeted Russian energy facilities and vessels in recent weeks.

Markets are monitoring the situation for potential disruptions to regional energy flows.

Although the tanker was empty, repeated strikes on infrastructure could eventually impact supply chains and insurance premiums for vessels operating in the area.