Ukraine strikes 12 Russian oil tankers in Sea of Azov, worsening Crimea fuel crisis

Ukraine's military announced on July 7 that its forces recently struck 12 Russian "Shadow Fleet" oil tankers in the Sea of Azov. The operation, involving drones and naval drones, significantly damaged the vessels and caused them to catch fire. These tankers were transporting fuel to Crimea, a critical logistics hub for Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.

The Ukrainian drone forces commander, Robert Brovdi, reported a large-scale success in the day-long air and sea operation. He stated that the tankers were severely damaged and burning, and that the "Shadow Fleet" was withdrawing from the Sea of Azov. However, the battle for fuel supplies around Crimea continues.

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In the day-long air and sea operation, large-scale results were achieved. These oil tankers were severely damaged and caught fire.

Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Crimea's logistics and energy infrastructure in recent weeks. This has led to fuel shortages on the peninsula, prompting Russian authorities to declare a state of emergency in Crimea. The recent strikes on the oil tankers further highlight Ukraine's strategy to isolate the peninsula.

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The attacks by the Ukrainian army have also caused the 'Shadow Fleet' to withdraw from the Sea of Azov, but the battle for Crimean fuel supplies around the Sea of Azov is still ongoing.