Industry sources: Security risks rise at Russian ports
Ukraine’s unmanned aerial vehicle attacks targeting ports in southern Russia are increasing concerns within the maritime industry, while Turkish companies operating in the region are closely monitoring developments.
According to information shared with 7Deniz by a WhatsApp group consisting of Turkish maritime professionals operating at Russian ports, there are currently at least 38 commercial vessels in the region. It is stated that approximately 80–85% of these vessels are tankers carrying fuel or heading to load fuel. The group also reported that there is one vessel carrying ethanol, as well as dry cargo vessels and Ro-Ro ships in the area.
Industry sources say that following the recent attacks, port operations and vessel movements are being monitored more closely.
Fire at the Port of Taganrog
According to the information obtained, the fire that broke out at the Port of Taganrog, which was targeted in Ukraine’s latest UAV attacks, is still ongoing. Sources in the region assess that the fire may continue for several more days, while heavy smoke has been reported around the port.
Due to the fire, residents living in some settlements around the port were reportedly evacuated as a precaution. According to initial assessments, no serious structural damage has been identified in the buildings. Open sources have also confirmed that fuel storage facilities at the Port of Taganrog caught fire and that evacuations were carried out in the surrounding area.
Air Traffic in Moscow Temporarily Disrupted
Meanwhile, due to the intensive UAV attacks targeting Moscow, flights at several airports were temporarily suspended. Russian authorities stated that the country's air defense systems neutralized a large number of UAVs.
Maritime Industry Closely Monitoring the Situation
In recent days, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Russia’s energy infrastructure, fuel storage facilities, and maritime logistics. International sources point out that the risk level in the Sea of Azov and surrounding areas has increased, particularly as tanker traffic has also become a target.
Turkish maritime companies operating in the region are closely monitoring developments. It has been learned that the latest situation at the ports is being followed carefully due to security risks and potential operational disruptions.
Note: The figures regarding the number of vessels and cargo distribution mentioned in this article are based on information obtained from Turkish maritime professionals operating in the region. These figures have not been officially confirmed by the relevant authorities.
