A Ukrainian drone strike hit a tanker in the Russian port of Rostov‑on‑Don on the night of December 17‑18, causing a massive explosion that killed two crew members and injured several others.
Explosions in Russian Cities; Air Defence Systems Deployed
On the night of December 17‑18, explosions were reported in the Russian cities of Rostov‑on‑Don and Bataisk. At about 23:30, local authorities activated air‑defence systems in the affected cities following reports of bomb blasts and subsequent power supply interruptions.
Tanker Attack in Russian Port; Casualties Reported
Ukrainian drones targeted a tanker docked in Rostov‑on‑Don, igniting a fire that caused a powerful explosion. Two crew members died and three others sustained injuries. In Bataisk, a separate drone attack resulted in one death and seven injuries, with two private houses set ablaze.
Putin Warns of Severing Ukraine’s Marine Access
Following the damage to three tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet, President Vladimir Putin threatened to “cut Ukraine off from the sea.” The statement came after Russia’s defence ministry announced that 47 Ukrainian drones had been shot down in recent raids.
Civilian Buildings Attacked; Children Injured
Reports indicate that Russian forces have targeted civilian structures, resulting in injuries to children. Details remain sparse, but the incidents underscore the broader escalation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine.
