In a significant development, Ukrainian sea drones launched an attack on a Russian navy base located near the major Black Sea port of Novorossiysk early on Friday. The attack, which was met with a swift response from Russian warships, resulted in the destruction of the drones, as per the official statement from Russia's defense ministry.
The incident had immediate repercussions, leading to the temporary suspension of all ship movement at the Novorossiysk port, according to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which operates an oil terminal in the area. Russian social media users reported hearing explosions and gunfire in the vicinity of Novorossiysk during the morning hours, marking a significant development as it could be the first Ukrainian attack on one of Russia's main commercial ports.
The Caspian Pipeline Consortium, responsible for loading oil onto tankers at Novorossiysk, stated that despite the port's temporary halt, its facilities remained undamaged, and oil loadings continued for tankers already moored.
Videos of ships moving off the coast while gunfire sounded from the sea's direction circulated on local online communities and were shared by the Russian online news outlet, Astra. Novorossiysk's emergency services confirmed reports of blasts, and the security services were promptly notified. This port, being one of the largest in the Black Sea, has become a focal point in the escalating clashes in the region.
Tensions in the Black Sea and adjacent ports have been on the rise since Russia's refusal to extend a deal last month that allowed for the safe export of grain from Ukrainian ports. In response, Russian drones and missiles targeted several Ukrainian port facilities and grain silos in or near the Black Sea.
Adding to the mounting tensions, Russia also reported an attack by Ukrainian sea drones on its warships while escorting a civilian vessel.
In a separate incident, Russian air defenses intercepted ten Ukrainian drones over Crimea, with three additional drones suppressed using electronic countermeasures, according to statements from the Russian defense ministry, as reported by TASS.
The situation remains highly volatile, and authorities are closely monitoring developments in the region. The international community is concerned about the potential escalation of hostilities and its impact on regional stability.