Kazakhstan condemns Black Sea drone attacks, affirms neutrality in conflicts

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan has voiced serious concern over recent drone attacks on three tankers in the Black Sea, emphasizing the country’s commitment to global energy security and its non-involvement in any armed conflicts.

Official spokesperson Yerlan Zhetybayev issued the statement following the incidents on January 13, when the tankers were en route to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium’s maritime terminal, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

“In emergency meetings with ambassadors from several European countries, as well as through consultations with the United States and other international partners, we stressed the urgent need for effective measures to ensure the safe transport of hydrocarbons, including via maritime routes, in full compliance with international law,” the Ministry said.

Kazakhstan reaffirmed that it is not a party to any armed conflict, highlighting its significant role in supporting both global and European energy security while ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies in strict accordance with established international norms.

The Ministry further noted that the affected tankers had all necessary permissions and were equipped with the required identification systems.

Highlighting the broader implications, the statement warned that the increasing frequency of such incidents poses rising risks to international energy infrastructure. It called for “close cooperation with partners to develop joint measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.”

By Vafa Guliyeva