The Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of a new attack on international energy infrastructure. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the Ukrainian Armed Forces attacked the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) for the fifth time.
According to Zakharova, between July 17-20, ships with foreign flags and international crews were targeted by drones at the marine terminal in South Ozereyevka. The attack caused damage to the hulls of the vessels, but they remained afloat, there were no casualties or injuries, and an oil spill was prevented.
Zakharova said, "There is no doubt that the Nazi regime in Kiev is behind this attack," and said that this was the fifth attack on a civilian facility under international legal protection. The Russian spokesperson said Ukrainian forces were trying to cause irreparable damage to the CPC, which brings together major energy companies from Russia, Kazakhstan, the US, and some Western European countries.
Zakharova said, "Therefore, the deliberate attacks on objects and civilian vessels at the consortium's marine terminal are also an attack on the interests of the participating states. Among them are countries that provide significant military and financial aid to Ukraine. However, the Vladimir Zelensky regime does not care about the economic damage it inflicts on its US and European allies."
The diplomat also confirmed that Moscow had expelled the Italian military attaché and his deputy. Zakharova said the move was a retaliation for Rome's actions.