UKRAINE ATTACKS RUSSIAN TANKERS IN SEA OF AZOV

Ukraine struck approximately a dozen Russian tankers in the Sea of Azov on Thursday, according to reports. The attacks targeted vessels reportedly used to supply fuel to Russian military forces and transport oil and petroleum products. Ukrainian forces aim to disrupt fuel supplies to Russian-occupied Crimea and circumvent international sanctions on Russia. Ukraine's defence ministry stated that at least 36 Russian ships, including 32 designated "shadow fleet" tankers, were hit and set on fire in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea during the first four days of the week.

Ukrainian long-range drone attacks have reportedly caused fuel shortages across Russian territory, leading to rising petrol prices and queues at filling stations in various regions. The tankers targeted in these operations were supplying fuel to Russian military operations. The escalating attacks represent a shift in Ukraine's military strategy toward disrupting Russian logistics infrastructure. Officials attributed the fuel supply disruption to the persistent drone campaign against Russian vessels and infrastructure.

Vladimir Putin stated his intention to continue the conflict despite the mounting attacks and reported fuel shortages. Russian officials characterised the economic disruption as temporary. The campaign against Russian fuel supplies reflects Ukraine's effort to degrade Russian military capability through logistical pressure rather than direct combat alone.