Russia's primary Black Sea oil-export terminal has recommenced crude loadings following a suspension of several days attributed to Ukrainian attacks. Ship-tracking data initially indicated the Altai, an Aframax-class vessel capable of carrying 80,000 to 100,000 tons of crude, had docked at Novorossiysk port. Individuals with knowledge of shipping data subsequently verified the resumption of operations. This development signifies the port's return to functionality after disruptions.
Earlier in April, the Sheskharis oil terminal at Novorossiysk had ceased loading crude cargoes for several days amid a surge in Ukrainian drone attacks in the area. This was corroborated by shipping information, satellite imagery, and vessel tracking data. For instance, in mid-April, two of the terminal's largest berths were reportedly out of operation for most of a week without any immediate signs of restart, impacting Russia's ability to maintain oil flows.
The Sheskharis oil terminal at Novorossiysk, Russia's largest oil port in the Black Sea, had previously stopped loading crude cargoes since early Tuesday, July 21, as a direct consequence of a surge in Ukrainian drone attacks. This interruption raised concerns about the stability of Russia's oil exports through this crucial Black Sea outlet.
However, the port has demonstrated resilience in resuming operations after such disruptions. For example, in April, the Samos crude tanker was moored at berth 1 of the Sheskharis oil terminal, and loading subsequently commenced. By May, crude exports from Novorossiysk had surged, with shipments from all crude berths restarting, stabilizing nationwide four-week average shipments at around 3.61 million barrels a day. The latest resumption of operations indicates a continuation of efforts to maintain export capacity despite ongoing security challenges.
