Two commercial vessels were attacked by Russian drones in the Black Sea, resulting in casualties among the crew members. The incident was confirmed by Oleksii Kuleba, Ukraine’s Vice Prime Minister for Reconstruction and Minister for Communities and Territories Development.
The first vessel, registered under the Panamanian flag, suffered significant damage, leading to the death of one crew member and injuries to two others, one of whom is reported to be in serious condition. The second vessel, flying the flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis, experienced minor injuries to three of its crew members.
Kuleba remarked that this attack exemplifies Russia’s ongoing aggression against maritime freedom, international trade, and global food security. He emphasized that civilian crews, commercial ships, and maritime infrastructure are now under threat, jeopardizing humanitarian and export routes.
He called for a clear international response to such acts, labeling them as terrorism. Kuleba stressed the need for the global community to recognize that civilian sailors should not become targets of military actions.
The recent drone attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea have raised concerns about maritime safety and international trade. Ukrainian officials are calling for a strong international response to these acts, which they classify as terrorism.