Attack on the Tanker Dashan
On December 10, 2023, sea drones of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) attacked the oil tanker Dashan in the Black Sea, belonging to the Russian 'shadow fleet'. The attack was carried out jointly with the Ukrainian Navy. As a result of this incident, the tanker sustained critical damage and was disabled.
The tanker Dashan, flying the flag of Comoros, was heading to the Novorossiysk terminal. Its estimated value is approximately 30 million dollars. It is also worth noting that a single voyage of this vessel could carry oil products worth a total of up to 60 million dollars.
Context and Consequences of the Attack
This attack is part of a broader campaign, as attacks on tankers KAIRO and VIRAT had already occurred on November 29, 2023. Russia, in turn, has spent around 10 billion dollars on its shadow fleet, which consists of over a thousand vessels. According to data, 17% of the world's oil tanker fleet consists of shadow fleet vessels. In 2023, Russia earned 188 billion dollars from oil exports, emphasizing the importance of this sector for its economy.
The European Union plans to place 120 oil tankers on a 'blacklist', indicating intentions to increase pressure on the Russian oil industry.
The attack on the tanker Dashan highlights Ukraine's intensified military actions in the Black Sea, as well as attempts to reduce Russia's economic potential by striking at its energy interests.
In the context of rising tensions in the region and previous attacks on Russian tankers, this may indicate a new phase of the conflict where Ukraine seeks to repel the enemy's aggression. Actions of the European Union aimed at limiting the Russian oil fleet may significantly affect Russia's capabilities in oil export in the future.