TVP World | Sea wars: Ukraine leaves Russian shipping in smoke

Oil tankers in Novorossiysk. Credit: Photo by Dimasu, iStock

Risk Intelligence Analyst Hans-Kristian Pedersen shared his insights with TVP World on the recent intensification of Ukrainian attacks on Russian and Russia-linked vessels in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea.

Published on 27 July 2026, the article looks at Ukraine’s increased use of air and sea drones against vessels in the region and the wider impact on maritime operations.

Hans-Kristian points out that Ukraine’s use of drones has proven that such operations can work and can be repeated. Together with a current window of opportunity, he suggests this could be behind the recent intensification of Ukrainian targeting, while also demonstrating to Russia and the wider world what Ukraine is capable of doing.

He also highlights the potential impact on mariners’ willingness to operate in the area. The danger is not necessarily that every vessel will be attacked, but that the perception that their vessel could be targeted may make captains more reluctant to enter the region.

Read full article on TVP World.

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