Tanker Traffic Disruptions Escalate on Two Fronts: Hormuz Near Standstill, Ukraine Strikes Russian Fleet

## Tanker Traffic Disruptions Escalate on Two Fronts Global oil shipping is facing simultaneous crises on two strategically critical fronts, with tanker movements severely curtailed in the Strait of Hormuz and Ukraine pressing an expanding campaign against Russian fuel vessels. ### Hormuz Traffic at Near Standstill Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — the world's most important oil chokepoint, through which roughly 20% of global petroleum supplies transit — has ground to a near standstill, according to shipping data and industry sources cited by gCaptain. The disruption follows the U.S. resumption of airstrikes on Iran, which prompted retaliatory action by Tehran in the Gulf region. The escalation has placed severe strain on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) governing maritime conduct in the region, raising urgent questions about the framework's ability to protect commercial shipping under active hostilities. Operators and charterers are understood to be reassessing transit risk, with many vessels holding position or diverting rather than proceeding through the strait. The Strait of Hormuz remains a non-negotiable artery for global energy markets. Any prolonged closure or sustained disruption would have immediate consequences for crude oil supply chains serving Asia, Europe, and beyond, with knock-on effects for freight rates and energy prices worldwide. ### Ukraine Expands Tanker Strike Campaign Separately, Ukraine has confirmed strikes on a further 12 tankers operating in southern Russia, according to gCaptain. Kyiv's campaign against Russian maritime fuel infrastructure has been steadily escalating in scope and is now contributing to a worsening nationwide gasoline shortage inside Russia. The strikes represent a deliberate strategic effort by Ukraine to degrade Russia's ability to distribute refined petroleum products domestically, targeting vessels that form a critical link in Russia's internal fuel supply chain. The cumulative effect of the campaign is increasingly visible in Russian fuel markets, with shortages reported across multiple regions. ### Industry Implications Taken together, the two developments underscore the degree to which geopolitical conflict is reshaping tanker market risk profiles. War risk insurance premiums in affected regions are expected to rise sharply, while voyage planning and port call decisions for operators with exposure to either theatre will require urgent review. Shipping companies, P&I clubs, and flag state authorities are closely monitoring both situations. Industry participants are advised to consult updated war risk advisories and maintain close contact with their insurers and security consultants before committing vessels to either affected region.