Ukrainian forces have carried out their first attack on a Russian oil tanker in the Mediterranean Sea, marking a significant expansion in Kyiv's long-range capabilities. A source within Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) confirmed the strike, which targeted the vessel named Qendil.
A Target in Neutral Waters
The assault occurred on Friday 19 December 2025. According to the SBU source, Ukrainian drones hit the Qendil while it was sailing in neutral waters, more than 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) from Ukrainian territory. The source stated the tanker sustained "critical damage" but was empty at the time of the attack.
The vessel is identified as part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet"—a collection of older ships used to transport crude oil while circumventing Western sanctions imposed after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "Russia used this tanker to circumvent sanctions and earn money that went to the war against Ukraine," the intelligence source said. "Therefore, from the point of view of international law and the laws and customs of war, this is an absolutely legitimate target for the SBU."
Kremlin's Response and Warnings
Responding to the incident during a live television event, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the attack would not disrupt Russia's oil supplies. However, he vowed that Moscow would retaliate, adding that Russia regularly responds with "much stronger strikes" against Ukrainian targets.
Putin also issued a stark warning regarding any potential threat to blockade Russia's coastal exclave of Kaliningrad. He stated such a move would "just lead to an unseen escalation of the conflict" and could potentially trigger a "large-scale international conflict."
Analysis and Broader Context
Sky News military analyst Michael Clarke assessed that Ukraine's claim of causing significant damage was "probably true." He noted, "The Ukrainians obviously feel that they can legitimise this sort of operation." The strike sends a clear message about Kyiv's reach. The SBU source emphasised: "The enemy must understand that Ukraine will not stop and will strike it anywhere in the world, wherever it may be."
This maritime attack follows the European Union's announcement of a substantial €90bn (£79bn) interest-free loan to Ukraine. Oleksandr Merezhko, chairman of the foreign affairs committee in the Ukrainian parliament, told Sky News the funds would "tremendously enhance" Kyiv's defensive capabilities.
However, he highlighted that the International Monetary Fund estimates Ukraine needs $137bn to "keep running." Merezhko argued that frozen Russian assets in Europe should be used to help fund Ukraine's defence, stating, "The aggressor should be punished." He vowed Ukraine would "continue to fight" for the move, calling it "a matter of justice."
