A Gambian-flagged tanker erupted in flames in the Black Sea on Friday, sending shockwaves along Turkey’s coastline The Kairos, sailing empty toward Russia’s Novorossiysk port, caught fire roughly 28 miles from the Turkish shore.
Turkey’s Directorate General of Maritime Affairs confirmed all 25 crew members were safely evacuated without injuries. Authorities attributed the blaze to “an external impact,” though they provided no further explanation or details on the cause.
Rescue teams were swiftly deployed to contain the fire and ensure the crew’s safety amid thick smoke and waves. Maritime officials remain on high alert, monitoring the situation closely while assessing potential environmental and navigational risks.
The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns for vessels navigating the busy and strategic Black Sea shipping lanes. Investigators are expected to determine the source of the impact that triggered the fire and prevent future accidents.
