Russia’s Transport Ministry said the Liberian-flagged tanker was attacked in the Black Sea and that crude oil was burning on the water.
A huge fire broke out on an oil tanker off Russia’s southern coast on Tuesday after the vessel was reportedly hit by Ukrainian naval drones, sending a towering column of black smoke over parts of the resort city of Sochi.
Russia’s Transport Ministry said the Liberian-flagged tanker was attacked in the Black Sea and that crude oil was burning on the water.
The blaze was too intense for firefighters to tackle immediately, but all 23 crew members, who were Indian nationals, were rescued, the ministry said.
Videos and images from Sochi showed bright flames burning offshore as thick black smoke rose into the sky. Authorities moved to restrict access to beaches and parts of the coastline as a precaution.
A large fire is burning on the water off Sochi tonight, with footage showing a long line of flame and a massive black smoke column visible across the city — consistent with burning oil from a tanker.
Ukrainian-aligned accounts claim the tanker was hit.
Russian sources say only that a vessel near the port is on fire with the cause unknown.
— Clash Report (@clashreport) October 6, 2026
Beaches Closed, Residents Told To Stay Indoors
Dmitry Plishkin, head of the Sirius federal territory, confirmed the tanker fire and announced the temporary closure of local beaches.
“A tanker caught fire in the Black Sea. To ensure the safety of people, the beaches of Sirius will be temporarily closed. The state of water and air is constantly monitored,” Plishkin said, adding that authorities were working with Russia’s Hydrometeorological Service.
Residents were also advised to remain indoors and keep their windows closed while the authorities monitored the situation.
The attack comes as Russia and Ukraine continue to target energy facilities and commercial shipping linked to the war in and around the Black Sea.