Blasts Hit Sanctioned Tankers Off Turkey’s Coast, Rescues Underway

Explosions Near Bosphorus Strait

Two oil tankers linked to Russia’s so-called shadow fleet were struck by explosions in the Black Sea near the entrance to Turkey’s Bosphorus Strait on Friday. The blasts triggered fires aboard the vessels and led to emergency rescue operations coordinated by Turkish maritime authorities.

Incident Details

According to local sources, the tankers were reportedly subject to international sanctions for transporting Russian oil outside price cap regulations. The blasts occurred in international waters not far from Turkey’s northern coastline. Crew members aboard both ships sent distress signals shortly after the explosions.

Rescue Operations

Turkish coastal rescue teams and firefighting vessels were dispatched immediately. Several crew members were evacuated, while others remained trapped as thick black smoke enveloped the ships. The cause of the explosions remains undetermined, though early suggestions point to possible technical faults or external attacks.

Background and Sanctions Context

These tankers form part of what analysts call Russia’s "shadow fleet"—a network of older vessels used to move oil under sanctions imposed following the invasion of Ukraine. Such ships often operate with limited insurance and minimal maintenance oversight, raising ongoing safety concerns.

"The risk of incidents involving these unregulated tankers has long been warned about," said a maritime safety expert cited by Reuters.
"The combination of old vessels, lack of transparency, and high-pressure cargoes is a recipe for disaster."

Investigation Underway

Authorities are inspecting the incident’s implications for maritime safety and sanctions enforcement. No oil spill has yet been confirmed, though environmental monitoring teams remain on alert to prevent potential contamination.

Author’s summary:
Explosions hit two sanctioned Russian-linked tankers near Turkey’s Bosphorus, prompting large-scale rescues and renewed alarm over the safety of shadow fleet operations.

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Reuters on MSN Reuters on MSN — 2025-11-29

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