By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) successfully targeted a Russian “shadow fleet” tanker with drones in the Mediterranean Sea, marking a first for such an operation. The strike, conducted in neutral waters over 2,000 kilometers from Ukraine, caused significant damage to the tanker QENDIL, rendering it inoperable. The SBU source emphasized that the attack was a legitimate target, as the tanker was used to circumvent sanctions and fund Russia’s war. This incident follows a recent drone attack on a Russian oil tanker in Rostov-on-Don, resulting in casualties and damage.
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Ukraine Launches First Successful Drone Attack on Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean. The news, if true, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The reports suggest that a Ukrainian drone has successfully targeted a Russian shadow fleet tanker in the Mediterranean Sea, a feat that would be a first for Ukraine in this particular theater of operations. The implications are substantial, suggesting a growing capacity for Ukraine to project its military power beyond its immediate borders and potentially disrupt Russia’s ability to conduct its illicit oil trade.
This strike, if confirmed, against a shadow fleet tanker carries considerable weight. These vessels are used to circumvent sanctions and transport Russian oil to markets that would otherwise be off-limits. They are an essential part of Russia’s economic lifeline, and targeting them directly impacts Russia’s ability to fund its war efforts. The fact that the attack occurred in the Mediterranean, over 2,000 kilometers from Ukraine, highlights the range and sophistication of the drones being employed.
Adding to the complexity, there are reports that the head of Russian military intelligence operations abroad, a Major General, was onboard the targeted tanker, the QENDIL. If this is accurate, it signifies a major blow to Russia’s military leadership and operational capabilities. The presence of such a high-ranking official on a tanker raises several questions. Was the General overseeing operations related to the shadow fleet? Or was he using the tanker as transport for covert missions? There is speculation that he was involved in preparing sabotage in Europe. The possibility that he was involved in overseeing operations or conducting discreet transport to an African port adds further intrigue. If this is accurate, it represents a substantial failure in Russian security.
The aftermath of such an event is almost predictable. One would expect Russia to deny the attack and attempt to downplay its impact. Russia’s typical response involves spreading misinformation and claiming that the damage was caused by something other than a Ukrainian strike. We may even see them resort to their usual tactic of announcing a “Christmas special” – a mass drone and missile strike. This has been a recurring pattern since the war began, and it is crucial to recognize that Russia has repeatedly rejected temporary ceasefires.
The context of this attack must also be considered. Ukraine has been receiving increasing support from Western nations. The potential involvement of intelligence services, such as the UK’s Special Operations Executive (SOE) and their US counterparts cannot be ignored. The historical precedent of the SOE’s mission to aid resistance movements and “set Europe ablaze” is a relevant point of comparison. These events underscore the ever-changing nature of the war and the way in which it continues to evolve.
The impact of this successful strike on the shadow fleet could be far-reaching. It’s an evolution in the conflict and the ability of Ukraine to hit back, targeting key assets. Russia, meanwhile, will likely continue its strategy of causing terror and destruction. Ukraine’s focus on power plants, oil refineries, and weapon production facilities is an example of the difference in approaches.
The future of the conflict remains uncertain, and it is impossible to predict all the twists and turns. As has been shown throughout this conflict, the fog of war can make verifying information a challenge, and one must be cautious about relying on single news sources. It is vital to continue to follow developments closely and to remain skeptical of any single source of information. The events are a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle and the need for vigilance and support.