Ukraine has carried out a high-profile strike on Russia’s Caspian Sea port of Olya, hitting a cargo ship that was transporting Iranian-made drone components and ammunition.
The attack was carried out by Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces in coordination with other branches of the armed forces on August 14, according to a statement from Ukraine’s General Staff.
The targeted ship, identified as Port Olya-4, was said to be carrying parts for Iranian-supplied Shahed drones and ammunition destined for Russia.
Unconfirmed reports suggest the vessel sustained severe damage while docked, with some accounts indicating it may have sunk. Maritime security firm Ambrey reported that imagery from the port showed the Russian-flagged ship partially submerged, with scorch marks visible on the bridge and superstructure. The company also said the crew was believed to have been rescued.
Ukraine’s General Staff explained that the strike was part of a campaign to reduce Russia’s ability to conduct air attacks. Ukrainian media have frequently reported that Russian drone strikes, many involving Iranian-designed Shahed drones, occur almost nightly and often target critical infrastructure.
The Port of Olya, located in Russia’s Astrakhan region along the Volga Delta, is around 500 miles from the Ukrainian frontlines. It handles roughly 1.5 million tons of cargo annually and is considered a vital logistics hub for moving goods, including military supplies, between Iran and Russia.
Both the U.S. and Ukrainian intelligence agencies have previously stated that Russian vessels, including the Port Olya-4, frequently transport Iranian drones and other weapons through this route. Washington imposed sanctions last year on several ships and shipping firms allegedly involved in such transfers.
The strike happened just hours before a planned summit in Alaska between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, where the war in Ukraine was expected to be the main topic. That same night, Ukraine also reported drone attacks on the Syzran oil refinery in Russia’s Samara region.
References: TWZ, WION
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