Russian Shadow Fleet Tankers Ablaze Near Turkey’s Coast
On November 28, 2025, two oil tankers connected to the notorious Russian “shadow fleet” caught fire in the Black Sea, near Turkey’s Bosporus Strait. This incident has raised alarms over maritime safety and environmental risks in the region.
Details of the Incident
The first tanker involved was the Gambia-flagged Kairos, which exploded around 28 nautical miles off the coast of Kocaeli province. It was traveling without cargo from Egypt to the Russian port of Novorossiysk at the time of the explosion. Soon after, a second tanker, named Virat, caught fire approximately 35 nautical miles from Turkey’s shores. It is unclear whether the two incidents were connected.
Rescue Operations
Rapid response from Turkish coast guard units was instrumental in rescuing the crews of both vessels. A total of 25 crew members from the Kairos and 20 from the Virat were saved during the operations.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Turkish authorities suspect the fire on the Kairos may have resulted from an “external impact.” They have not disclosed specifics about the incident’s cause, but potential explanations include a naval mine explosion or an intentional attack. This area has experienced issues with drifting mines in past years.
Given these incidents, maritime authorities have heightened their alert status, closely monitoring activities to prevent further occurrences and to maintain safety for shipping traffic in the Bosporus region.
Sanctions and “Shadow Fleet” Background
Both the Kairos and the Virat are listed among vessels subject to international sanctions due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Russian government has utilized these older cargo ships to bypass restrictions on crude oil exports.
- The Virat was sanctioned by the US in January 2025, followed by actions from the EU, UK, Switzerland, and Canada.
- In July 2025, the EU sanctioned the Kairos.
- The fleet is notorious for generating substantial revenues for the Kremlin, despite the sanctions imposed.
The Virat, which was built in 2018, has previously operated under flags of various countries, including Barbados and Panama. In contrast, the Kairos, constructed in 2002, has sailed under flags such as Panama, Greece, and Liberia.
Environmental Risks
The recent incidents have heightened concerns about the potential environmental impacts in the Black Sea, a region already fraught with hazards due to past conflicts. Turkish authorities continue to prioritize maritime safety and environmental protection amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
