On November 28, four oil tankers linked to Russia’s shadow fleet exploded off Dakar and near the Bosphorus, prompting President Erdoğan to condemn Ukraine’s drone campaign.
Dakar Tankers Erupt in Explosions
Four external blasts hit the Besiktas Shipping-owned tanker Mersin near Dakar, Senegal, the West African coast. The ship was transporting jet fuel for Russian ports.
No Environmental Damage Reported
The owner stated the explosions caused water intrusion into the engine room and a hull breach, but no pollution was detected. The crew remained safe.
Bosphorus Blow‑Ups on the Same Night
Turkish media reported explosions on two shadow‑fleet tankers, Cairo and Virat, near the Bosphorus on November 28. The Ukrainian Security Service claimed the vessels were hit by sea drones.
Erdogan Calls the Attacks an Escalation
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the drone strikes, saying they endanger maritime safety, the environment, and life within Turkey’s Exclusive Economic Zone. He described the situation as a “disturbing escalation.”