Ukrainian forces have targeted eight tankers associated with Russia’s shadow fleet in waters off Crimea, Kyiv’s military announced on Tuesday.

The overnight drone strikes were aimed at vessels transporting fuel to Russian military positions in occupied territories, marking a significant escalation in attacks on maritime logistics infrastructure.

The operation underscores the intensifying pressure on Russia’s maritime supply lines.

By directly targeting the shadow fleet—vessels often used to circumvent international sanctions and price caps—Ukraine is seeking to disrupt the flow of resources critical to Russia’s war effort.

This development adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile security environment in the Black Sea.

The strikes come amid broader geopolitical tensions affecting global shipping routes.