SBU's Campaign Against Russian Energy Logistics
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has expanded its campaign against Russian energy logistics by attacking oil tankers that, according to Kyiv's estimates, are used to export oil in violation of Western sanctions. In the last two weeks, there have been at least five incidents, and the SBU has claimed responsibility for three of them, which occurred near Ukraine. The latest strike was carried out against the tanker Dashan.
SBU representatives note that their goal is to actively reduce the flow of petrodollars into the Russian budget. This campaign is a response to the continued evasion schemes by Russia that undermine international sanctions. However, as stated by Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov,
“this is not our goal. That would be piracy. We do not target civilian vessels.”
Impact of Attacks on International Trade
As a result of these attacks, the costs of insuring vessels transiting the Black Sea have increased. Such changes indicate rising tensions in the region, as well as significant challenges for international trade. On December 2, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to these attacks as
“piracy,”emphasizing the international context of the situation.
This SBU campaign underscores the significant attention Ukraine is paying to combating the financing of Russia's military actions, particularly through the energy sector. The rising costs of insuring vessels may lead to reduced trade volumes through the Black Sea, affecting the economic stability of the region. Meanwhile, reactions from Russian leadership to these actions may indicate a potential escalation of conflict and increased countermeasures from Moscow. Thus, the situation remains tense, complicating international relations and trade ties in the region.