Three crude-oil tankers part of Russia's shadow fleet faced drone attacks off Turkey's Black Sea coast overnight. The Turkish-managed Altura and Velora vessels were targeted while conducting ship-to-ship cargo transfers, according to a local port agent report seen by Bloomberg. Ship-tracking data confirmed both vessels arrived in the area on May 24.

The Altura tanker sustained damage during an earlier attack in March when fully laden with approximately one million barrels of Russian Urals crude oil. These incidents underscore the vulnerability of vessels involved in Russia's oil trade amid international sanctions. The repeated targeting suggests a coordinated effort to disrupt Russia's energy exports through unconventional means.

Energy markets face increased volatility as these attacks create uncertainty in oil transportation routes. Insurance costs for vessels operating in Black Sea waters have likely risen, while trading companies must reassess risk management protocols for Russian oil exports. The attacks demonstrate how geopolitical tensions continue to impact global energy infrastructure.