Drone strikes hit oil tankers at CPC terminal July 17-20

A series of drone strikes targeting oil tankers at a key Black Sea export terminal over four days has disrupted a critical global energy corridor, drawing condemnation from Kazakhstan and raising concerns over the security of maritime trade. The attacks, which occurred from July 17 through July 20, targeted multiple vessels at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal near Novorossiysk, Russia, temporarily halting loading operations for Kazakh crude oil.

The Caspian Pipeline Consortium route is a vital artery for Kazakhstan, handling approximately 80% of the country's oil exports and more than 1% of global daily supply. The pipeline transports crude from Kazakhstan's largest fields-Tengiz, Kashagan, and Karachaganak-to the Black Sea port for shipment to international markets.

According to official statements and consortium reports, the attacks unfolded over several days. On July 17, the tanker Nordic Zenith was reportedly attacked while empty and en route to the terminal. On July 19, two tankers, the Liberia-flagged ASIA and the Marshall Islands-flagged NISSOS IOS, were struck while loading at the terminal. A final attack occurred on July 20, targeting the Cameroon-flagged...