- Exclusive Economic Zone Violations Raise Regional Alarm.
- Talks Held with NATO Leadership and Regional Ministers.
- Kyiv Accepts One Strike but Denies Involvement in Another.
On Wednesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan raised alarms about the very scary attacks on tankers linked to Russia in the Black Sea, warning that these incidents pose a threat to all regional players and indicate that the conflict in Ukraine is escalating. He pointed out that these strikes within Türkiye’s exclusive economic zone not only violate navigational safety but also disrupt commercial activities, reports Reuters.
Regional Coordination to Enhance Security
Fidan mentioned that Türkiye, Romania, and Bulgaria are currently assessing additional security measures for the area. A source from the Turkish Foreign Ministry revealed that Fidan also spoke about the attacks with Mark Rutte in Brussels, as well as with his counterparts from Romania and Bulgaria.
Insurance Impact and Recent Strikes
These attacks have caused shipping insurance premiums in the Black Sea to rise, prompting some operators to halt activities related to Russia. Ukraine has taken responsibility for a recent strike involving seaborne drones targeting two empty tankers on their way to a Russian port.
Kyiv Rejects Involvement in Second Incident
In a different incident this week, Kyiv denied any involvement in a situation where a Russia-flagged tanker carrying sunflower oil reported a drone attack off the Turkish coast. Additionally, another tanker linked to Russia was damaged near Senegal, but no group has claimed responsibility for that attack.
Focus on Safe Trade and International Law
According to the Foreign Ministry source, Fidan and the ministers from Romania and Bulgaria stressed the importance of maintaining free trade flows, securing vital infrastructure, and ensuring safe maritime corridors in line with international law.
Ankara Condemns Attacks and Warns All Parties
Türkiye reiterated that attacks on commercial vessels are unacceptable and called on all parties to put an end to them, specifically urging Ukrainian authorities to take action, as noted by a Turkish official.
Moscow Threatens Further Escalation
Vladimir Putin responded by threatening to cut off Ukraine’s access to the sea. He said Russia would intensify strikes on Ukrainian facilities and vessels and take action against tankers belonging to states assisting Ukraine.
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Source: Reuters
