Explosions Hit Two Russian Ghost Fleet Tankers in Turkey Possible Rocket Drone or Mine Attack
Explosions have struck two tankers linked to Russia’s oil transport near Turkey’s coastline. The incidents involved the vessels Kairos and Virat, both of which were flagged under the Gambian registry. The Turkish Maritime Authority reported that the Kairos was set ablaze approximately 28 nautical miles off the coast while it was en route to Novorossiysk.
Incident Details
The fire on the Kairos broke out around 1800 local time, according to Kocaeli Governor Ilhami Aktas. Fortunately, all 25 crew members aboard the tanker were safely evacuated. Additionally, the second tanker, Virat, reported an impact approximately 35 nautical miles from the shore.
Possible Causes of the Incidents
The Turkish Minister of Transport, Abdulkadir Uraloglu, speculated on the nature of the explosions. He mentioned that the term “external causes” could imply that the vessels were struck by a mine, a rocket, or a drone. Uraloglu indicated that these possibilities are being investigated as the cause of the incidents.
- Kairos: Empty, en route to Novorossiysk.
- Virat: Also empty, but details regarding its condition were limited.
Response and Current Status
Rescue teams responded promptly. The Coast Guard intervened to assist the Virat, which had 20 crew members on board. According to Uraloglu, the health and safety of those aboard the Virat were not compromised, as it was confirmed there was no fire on that vessel.
| Tanker | Status | Location (Nautical Miles Off Coast) |
|---|---|---|
| Kairos | On fire | 28 |
| Virat | Reported impact | 35 |
Impact on Navigation and Environment
Both tankers were empty at the time of the incidents. Uraloglu noted that there were no signs of pollution as a result of the explosions. However, the situation remains under close observation. The Kairos was burning for almost five hours before control efforts reached the site.
This incident unfolds against the backdrop of sanctions imposed on these vessels due to their involvement in transporting oil from Russian ports, following the sanctions levied after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as further developments arise.
