Ukrainian Naval Drones Target Sanctioned Oil Tanker MARQUISE Near Tuapse

On April 29, 2026, Ukrainian forces struck the Russian oil tanker MARQUISE in the Black Sea using two kamikaze drones. The tanker, flagged under Cameroon, was reportedly drifting without an Automatic Identification System (AIS) signal and was approximately 210 kilometers southeast of Tuapse. The strike specifically targeted the stern section, including the engine room and propeller-rudder assembly. The MARQUISE is part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' and has been involved in the illegal transport of oil products, operating under sanctions from multiple countries, including Ukraine and the EU. The extent of the damage is currently being assessed. Concurrently, Ukrainian drones attacked oil facilities in Russian cities, and Russia reported intercepting numerous Ukrainian drones across several regions. The ongoing conflict highlights the strategic maritime operations being conducted by Ukraine against Russian assets.

Key Points: • Ukrainian naval drones struck the sanctioned tanker MARQUISE on April 29, 2026. • The tanker was operating without an AIS signal and is part of Russia's 'shadow fleet'. • Ukraine's military continues to target Russian oil infrastructure amid ongoing hostilities.