Far from the shore: how the SBU conducted a naval operation in the Mediterranean Sea

The Security Service of Ukraine announced a special operation in the Mediterranean Sea, which, according to the Ukrainian side, became the first attack on a vessel of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.” This involves actions beyond the traditional theater of military operations — more than two thousand kilometers from Ukrainian territory.

According to Kyiv’s assessment, the operation was not demonstrative but practical in nature and was aimed at one of the logistical elements of the Russian military economy.

What is known about the operation

According to the SBU, the special operation was conducted in neutral waters. The “Alpha” unit participated, using unmanned means to strike the target.

The target of the attack was the Russian tanker QENDIL, which, according to Ukrainian intelligence, was part of the maritime transportation system of energy resources used to circumvent international sanctions.

At the time of the strike, the vessel was without cargo and was not transferring fuel. The SBU emphasizes that this significantly reduced the risk of environmental damage to the region.

Why this tanker

The Ukrainian side claims that QENDIL was used in a supply chain whose revenues were directed to finance the war against Ukraine. Such vessels, according to Kyiv, form the basis of Russia’s “shadow fleet” — an informal network of tankers involved in circumventing sanction restrictions.

This infrastructure, as noted by the SBU, allows Moscow to maintain energy exports and receive foreign currency revenues despite international pressure.

Kyiv’s legal position

A representative of the Security Service of Ukraine stated that from the perspective of international law, the tanker was considered a legitimate target. Kyiv’s argument is that the vessel performed a function of material support for military aggression, thus falling under the criteria of military legitimacy.

The SBU emphasizes that the use of civilian vessels to circumvent sanctions and support the war does not grant them immunity.

Consequences of the strike

According to the Ukrainian side, the QENDIL tanker sustained serious damage and lost the ability for further operation. Video materials were published, which are claimed to confirm the success of the operation and the scale of the damage inflicted.

An assessment of the vessel’s technical condition by independent sources is currently unavailable.

Moscow’s reaction

As of the time of publication, there have been no official comments from Russian authorities or relevant agencies. There have also been no statements from the shipowner or insurance structures related to the tanker.

The SBU operation in the Mediterranean Sea signaled an expansion of the geography of Ukrainian actions and a shift to strikes on economic infrastructure related to the war beyond the direct conflict zone. This factor is already being discussed in expert circles as a new stage of confrontation, closely watched in the Middle East region, Europe, and Israel — which logically fits into the analytical agenda of NAnews — Israel News | Nikk.Agency.