Ukraine Reportedly Hits Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker In Mediterranean For First Time

According to a report by Reuters on Friday 19 December, 2025, Ukraine has carried out its first known strike on a Russian “shadow fleet” tanker in the Mediterranean, marking a significant expansion of Kyiv’s reach beyond the immediate war zone, according to a source within the country’s security services.

The attack, the official said, was carried out using aerial drones that hit a vessel identified as the Qendil. What makes the incident notable is the distance involved. The tanker was operating more than 2,000 kilometres from Ukraine’s borders when it was struck, underscoring how far Ukrainian operations can now extend.

Although the ship was reportedly not carrying any cargo at the time, the damage inflicted was described as severe. Details remain limited, but the source indicated that the strike left the vessel critically impaired.

Push for peace in a war that has lasted almost four years continues amid difficulty in reaching compromise between Russia and Ukraine.

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