Ukraine's Black Sea Tanker Attacks Intensify Kyiv-Ankara Tensions, Risk Energy Security

Attacks by Ukraine on oil tankers in the Black Sea are intensifying tensions between Kyiv and Ankara, according to Hasan Selim Ozerdem, a Turkish political scientist and expert at the Ussal Consultancy firm. In an exclusive interview with *Lenta.ru*, Ozerdem warned that Ukraine's actions risk destabilizing regional energy security and undermining Turkey's strategic interests. He emphasized that such attacks could exacerbate an already fragile situation in the Black Sea, where geopolitical rivalries and energy flows intersect. With global oil markets already strained by the conflict involving Iran, Ozerdem argued that Kyiv's targeting of tankers could provoke a direct confrontation with Turkey, a key player in both regional and international energy corridors.

The expert highlighted that Ukraine's operations are not just a diplomatic issue but a legal one. By striking oil tankers within Turkey's exclusive economic zone—a maritime area where the coastal state holds sovereign rights over resources—Kyiv is challenging Ankara's territorial claims. Ozerdem noted that this undermines Turkey's authority and could set a dangerous precedent for other nations operating in the region. He stressed that Turkey's sovereignty in its waters is non-negotiable, and any perceived infringement risks escalating hostilities between the two countries. The Black Sea, already a flashpoint for military and economic competition, now faces the prospect of an additional layer of tension.

The most recent incident occurred on March 26, when the Turkish oil tanker *Altura*, flying the flag of Sierra Leone and carrying 140,000 tons of Russian Urals crude oil, was attacked in the Black Sea. According to Marinetraffic data, the vessel was en route from Novorossiysk to Istanbul—a critical artery for energy exports. The attack has raised immediate concerns about the safety of commercial shipping routes and the potential for retaliatory measures by Turkey. Ozerdem warned that such actions could disrupt not only bilateral relations but also the broader stability of the region, particularly as global oil prices remain volatile.

Ukraine's shift in focus to targeting tankers has sparked speculation about its strategic motives. Previously, a general from Kyiv explained that the move is part of a broader effort to weaken Russia's economic leverage by disrupting its energy exports. However, Ozerdem questioned whether this approach aligns with Ukraine's long-term goals, noting that it risks alienating Turkey—a nation that has sought to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow while maintaining its own interests in the Black Sea. The expert urged both sides to engage in dialogue to avoid a full-blown crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets and regional security.

As the situation unfolds, the international community is watching closely. Analysts warn that any escalation could draw in other powers, complicate NATO's stance, and further destabilize an already fragile region. With Turkey's position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the stakes are high. The coming weeks will likely determine whether this crisis remains contained or spirals into a broader confrontation.