Two commercial ships attacked in Black Sea, Ukraine blames Russian drones

Ukraine’s Seaport Authority announced on Thursday that two commercial vessels, flying the flags of Panama and Barbados, were attacked while transiting the Black Sea navigation corridor, resulting in damage to both ships. One vessel was carrying a metal cargo heading to Odesa, a critical port for Ukrainian exports, while the other was transporting grain and was targeted shortly after departing the port. A fire broke out on one of the ships but was quickly extinguished by the crew. No casualties were reported, and both vessels continued their journeys.

Russian drone strikes

Odesa Regional Governor Oleh Kiper alleged that the attacks were carried out by Russian drones. “The enemy continues to terrorize the Odesa region and aims to disrupt the functioning of the Ukrainian maritime corridor,” Kiper said. He added that Russian drones conducted multiple waves of strikes on southern Odesa region, targeting civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. The Russian Defense Ministry has not yet commented on the incident. The attacks occurred despite a fragile ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine that has been in place since early May.