ISTANBUL (AP) — The Turkish government has strongly condemned the recent Ukrainian drone attacks on two Russian oil tankers, identified as the Kairos and Virat, which occurred in the Black Sea. The vessels involved were reportedly within Turkey's exclusive economic zone, raising concerns about navigation safety and environmental security in the region.

Oncu Keceli, a spokesman for the Turkish Foreign Ministry, emphasized that these drone attacks posed significant risks not only to navigation but also to life, property, and the broader ecological environment. Following the incident, Keceli stated that Turkey is engaged in discussions with relevant parties to ensure that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine does not spread further into the Black Sea, while also aiming to safeguard Turkey's economic interests.

Ukraine has claimed responsibility for the attacks, revealing that it deployed naval drones to strike the Russian tankers in rapid succession late Friday. Fortunately, reports indicate that the crew members aboard both vessels remained unharmed during the assaults.

The OpenSanctions database, which monitors entities involved in evading sanctions against Russia, categorized these tankers as part of a larger “shadow fleet.” This fleet is alleged to be used for circumventing economic penalties imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Throughout the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has conducted a number of successful naval strikes targeting Russian shipping, predominantly utilizing explosives-laden marine drones. While these operations have significantly impacted Russian maritime activities, they have primarily been concentrated in the northern Black Sea region.

This latest incident underscores the complex dynamics at play in the Black Sea, particularly as regional powers like Turkey navigate their interests amidst escalating tensions. The Turkish government's response highlights its strategic position and the delicate balance it seeks to maintain in a conflict that continues to evolve.