Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) released video on the 16th showing domestically developed sea drones striking two Russian shadow fleet tankers in the Black Sea, part of operations from the 6th to 16th that Ukraine claims hit 147 Russian shadow fleet vessels across the Azov Sea and Black Sea. On the same day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who had led drone-centered military reforms since his appointment in January. The dismissal reportedly stemmed from conflicts with military establishment figures, triggering large-scale protests across Ukraine opposing Fedorov's removal. The developments come as Ukraine's drone capabilities continue to apply pressure on Russian naval operations in the region.
Ukraine Claims 147 Russian Shadow Fleet Vessels Struck in Black Sea Operations
The SBU published footage on the 16th depicting the sea drone 'Mamai' accelerating toward a tanker, colliding with the vessel, and causing flames to erupt from the ship. The video shows the drone approaching at high speed before the screen goes black upon impact, followed by fire visible on the tanker. Ukraine's military stated that operations conducted from the 6th to 16th targeted a total of 147 vessels belonging to Russia's shadow fleet in the Azov Sea and Black Sea. The shadow fleet refers to vessels used to circumvent sanctions on Russian oil exports. The SBU's release of attack footage marks a continuation of Ukraine's campaign to disrupt Russian maritime logistics using domestically produced unmanned systems.
Zelenskyy Dismisses Defense Minister Fedorov Amid Military Establishment Conflict
President Zelenskyy dismissed Mykhailo Fedorov from his position as Defense Minister on the 16th, according to the source. Fedorov, 35 years old, was appointed to the role in January and is credited as a key figure in enabling Ukraine to pressure Russia with long-range drones. He led efforts to develop domestic combat drones capable of replacing Chinese-made systems, significantly improving Ukraine's drone capabilities during his tenure. The dismissal reportedly resulted from conflicts between Fedorov and entrenched military establishment figures. Following news of his removal, large-scale protests erupted across Ukraine, with public opposition to Fedorov's dismissal intensifying throughout the country.
FAQ
What did Ukraine's SBU announce on the 16th regarding Russian shadow fleet vessels?
Ukraine's Security Service released video on the 16th showing sea drone attacks on two Russian shadow fleet tankers in the Black Sea. Ukraine claimed its military struck a total of 147 Russian shadow fleet vessels in operations conducted from the 6th to 16th across the Azov Sea and Black Sea.
Why did President Zelenskyy dismiss Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov?
President Zelenskyy dismissed Fedorov on the 16th following reported conflicts between the minister and military establishment figures. Fedorov, appointed in January at age 35, had led drone-centered military reforms and domestic drone development. His removal triggered large-scale protests across Ukraine opposing the dismissal.
