Early Friday, the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk—an essential hub for Russian oil exports—experienced a drone attack that damaged a docked ship, nearby apartment buildings, and an oil depot. Russian officials confirmed that three crew members aboard the vessel sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
The attack sparked fears over global oil supply, causing crude prices to rise nearly 2%. Novorossiysk, which plays a crucial role in Russia’s oil exports, has been repeatedly targeted this year by drone and unmanned boat attacks affecting pipelines, refineries, and ports across the Baltic and Black Sea.
Industry sources report that crude oil shipments via Novorossiysk reached 3.22 million tonnes in October—around 761,000 barrels per day. From January to October, the port handled 24.716 million tonnes. Oil product exports reached 1.794 million tonnes in October and totaled 16.783 million tonnes over the first ten months of the year.
Krasnodar region Governor Veniamin Kondratyev shared on social media, “Novorossiysk suffered the most. Overnight, more than 170 personnel and 50 pieces of equipment worked to manage the aftermath, extinguish fires, and assist residents.”
Officials later confirmed the fire at the Sheskharis terminal, which manages crude oil and product exports, has been fully extinguished. Drone fragments also hit at least four apartment buildings, shattering windows but causing no injuries. Coastal infrastructure sustained damage as well, though details remain limited.
Reuters noted that the attack’s details could not be independently verified, and Ukrainian officials have not commented on the incident.
While the event highlights rising tensions and the vulnerability of oil infrastructure, it also underscores the resilience and quick response of local teams working tirelessly to protect residents and restore normalcy.
