Tensions Escalate: Ukrainian Drone Attack Hits Russian Warship

A Ukrainian naval drone attack seriously damaged a Russian warship at Russia’s Black Sea navy base in Novorossiysk, according to sources. The port, responsible for 2% of the world’s oil supply and grain exports, briefly suspended ship movement but later returned to normal operations.

The Russian Defence Ministry stated that the Ukrainian attack by two sea drones was repelled, and the drones were destroyed, without mentioning any damage. However, a Ukrainian intelligence source claimed that the Russian Navy landing ship, Olenegorsky Gornyak, suffered a serious breach and couldn’t conduct combat missions. The attack involved a sea drone carrying 450 kilograms of TNT, but details on casualties were not provided.

A separate source reported that a large Russian naval vessel had to be towed ashore due to damage. Footage circulating on social media depicted the vessel tilting significantly towards its port side, though its authenticity remains unverified.

Novorossiysk, being a major terminal for oil and oil products export, plays a significant role in the Black Sea. The Caspian Pipeline Consortium confirmed its facilities were undamaged, and oil loadings continued onto tankers.

Tensions in the Black Sea have escalated, with Russia withdrawing from a grain export deal and witnessing repeated drone attacks on port facilities and grain silos. The Russian Defence Ministry reported repelling a Ukrainian attack on Crimea, with no casualties or damage.