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Greek Tanker Struck by Missile in Black Sea, Crew Emerges Unharmed

  A Greek‑flagged tanker sailing near the Russian port of Novorossiysk was struck by a missile but remained operational, and all 24 crew members were confirmed safe.   A Greek‑owned and Greek‑flagged tanker sustained material damage after being hit by a missile while sailing approximately 14 nautical miles off the Russian port of Novorossiysk in the Black Sea. According to authorities, the vessel—operated by Maran Gas Maritime—was not carrying cargo at the time of the strike and continued to navigate safely following the incident.  All 24 crew members on board, including ten Greek nationals, thirteen Filipinos, and one Romanian, were reported to be in good health. The impact caused damage to the starboard side of the ship, but no assistance or towing was required. The tanker remained fully operational, and no environmental pollution was reported.  Greek officials have condemned the attack as dangerous and unacceptable, noting that the incident occurred amid height...
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Lukoil Moves to Divest Global Holdings Amid Escalating Sanctions

                            General view of Orsknefteorgsintez oil refinery in the Orenburg region.


Russia’s second-largest oil producer, Lukoil, has announced plans to sell off its international assets in response to a fresh wave of Western sanctions targeting the company and its subsidiaries. The move marks one of the most significant corporate retreats by a Russian energy giant since the start of sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine.

In a statement, Lukoil said the decision was made “owing to the introduction of restrictive measures” and confirmed that it has already begun considering bids from potential buyers. The sales process is being conducted under a U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) wind-down license, which allows the company to continue operating its overseas businesses temporarily while transactions are finalized. Lukoil also indicated it may seek an extension of this license to ensure uninterrupted operations during the transition.

The company’s international portfolio is extensive, spanning refineries in Italy and the Netherlands, as well as upstream projects in Iraq, Uzbekistan, and West Africa. Its largest foreign holding is a 75% stake in Iraq’s West Qurna-2 oil field, one of the world’s biggest reserves.

The sanctions, imposed by the United States and Britain in October 2025, targeted both Lukoil and Rosneft, along with dozens of subsidiaries and shipping assets, in an effort to further restrict Russia’s energy revenues. Analysts suggest that the forced divestment could reshape global energy markets, particularly in Europe, where Lukoil has maintained a strong downstream presence.

While the company has not disclosed potential buyers, industry observers expect interest from Middle Eastern and Asian firms seeking to expand their global footprint. However, the sales process is likely to be complicated by the sanctions regime, which could deter Western-linked bidders.

Lukoil’s decision underscores the growing pressure on Russian energy companies as sanctions continue to tighten, forcing them to scale back international ambitions and refocus on domestic operations.


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