Zelenskyy says Russian strike on Odesa port damaged civilian ship

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that a civilian commercial vessel was damaged in a Russian missile strike targeting the key port of Chornomorsk in the Odesa region. In a statement on Telegram, Zelenskyy condemned the attack, asserting it had "no – and could have no – military purpose whatsoever."

A strike on critical trade infrastructure

The damaged vessel was located in Chornomorsk, a vital component of Ukraine's Black Sea maritime trade and grain export corridor. Zelenskyy characterized the incident as proof that Russia "refuses to take the current opportunity for diplomacy seriously enough." He also referenced a separate Russian attack on Odesa's energy infrastructure the previous night, highlighting a pattern of targeting civilian economic assets.

Context of the attack and US discussions

The strike was part of a broader Russian assault involving ballistic missiles and drones, according to Ukrainian media reports. Explosions were reported in Chornomorsk and several Odesa districts, with local authorities warning residents to shelter due to ongoing drone activity. Zelenskyy noted he had previously discussed the security situation in Odesa directly with US President Donald Trump, underscoring the city's strategic significance.

Ongoing impact and verification challenges

Ukrainian media later reported a container ship caught fire at the port following the shelling, though official details on casualties or the extent of damage remain pending. Independent verification is difficult due to the active conflict, and Russian authorities have not commented on the specific reports. The attack underscores the persistent threat to global shipping and food security posed by the targeting of Ukraine's Black Sea ports.