Tankers are fleeing from Tuapse to Novorossiysk due to the threat of new drone attacks

Activity at the port of Tuapse has halved over the past 24 hours compared to average levels amid the risk of drone attacks. Only three ships entered the port, including one oil tanker.

This was reported by Novaya Gazeta.

Another vessel of the same type left the port area during the day, and only two ships are expected to arrive by the end of the day. Meanwhile, the port of Novorossiysk, located 160 km from Tuapse, has seen a 20% increase in activity. On April 20, 26 ships entered the port, most of which were oil tankers, dry cargo ships, and container ships.

Novorossiysk is expected to receive a similar number of vessels over the next 24 hours. This redistribution of maritime traffic is occurring amid systematic strikes on Russian energy infrastructure facilities. The aggressor country’s losses in oil revenue due to such incidents could amount to significant sums daily.

The Russian side is attempting to ensure the safety of shipping by utilizing port facilities farther from the front lines. The change in logistics is affecting the schedules for oil and petroleum product deliveries to international markets. Previously, the port of Tuapse was one of the key hubs for the export of Russian energy resources in the Black Sea region.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of Russia’s port infrastructure to air attacks. Experts predict a further decline in port traffic at facilities within range of long-range drones. Growing queues in Novorossiysk could lead to delays in logistics chains.

Russian special services are attempting to strengthen air defense measures at seaports. However, tanker owners are opting for safer routes to avoid losses. The impact on Russia’s overall economy from the disruption of major oil terminals continues to grow.

Vessel traffic monitoring confirms a trend toward withdrawing the fleet from dangerous zones. Official representatives of the Tuapse port authority have not yet commented on the situation regarding the sharp drop in traffic. Global insurance companies are also reassessing the risks for vessels calling at ports in the Krasnodar Krai.

Residents of Tuapse, Russia, are increasingly complaining about the unbearable living conditions in the frontline city. The once-popular resort has turned into an area of environmental disaster and constant danger due to regular explosions at local industrial facilities.

On the night of April 20, Ukrainian defense forces successfully attacked a number of strategic targets, including an oil refinery in Tuapse and two large amphibious assault ships in occupied Sevastopol.