A Liberia-flagged oil tanker caught fire in the Black Sea near Russia on Tuesday following a drone attack. There were 23 Indian crew members on board the vessel, all of whom were safely evacuated by emergency response teams.

According to Russia’s Transport Ministry, the tanker was targeted in a drone attack by Ukraine, after which a major fire broke out on the vessel. Burning crude oil was also seen on the sea. The intensity of the fire initially made it difficult for rescue teams to approach the tanker. Later, as the fire subsided, efforts were launched to bring it under control.

Vessel Was on Ukraine’s Sanctions List

According to reports, the vessel’s last location before the attack was recorded in the Black Sea near the Russia-Georgia border. The ship was also included on Ukraine’s sanctions list and was described as part of Russia’s alleged ‘shadow fleet’.

Black Sea Attacks Affect Maritime Trade

Continued attacks in the Black Sea are affecting maritime trade. Shipowners have started avoiding the route, resulting in higher transportation costs.

According to the report, Russia’s grain exports fell from 5.9 million tonnes to 1.7 million tonnes in August, while exports were estimated to have declined by around 50 per cent in September as well.