Two Civilian Vessels Targeted by Russia in the Black Sea

Russian Attacks on Civilian Ships in the Black Sea

According to Главком: On June 10, Russian forces launched drone strikes against two civilian cargo vessels operating in the Black Sea. Both ships were navigating Ukraine's maritime corridor toward ports in the Odesa region. One of the vessels, a Panama-flagged merchant ship carrying metal, was hit and caught fire, though the crew managed to extinguish the flames. The other, a Barbados-flagged ship transporting wheat, sustained damage. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and both vessels remained seaworthy, continuing on their planned routes.

In addition, Russian troops carried out multiple waves of attacks on southern Odesa, damaging civilian infrastructure and energy facilities, but again without causing any injuries. Just prior to these strikes, the Russian military targeted two boats belonging to the maritime search-and-rescue service that were conducting a humanitarian mission within Ukraine's designated sea corridor.

Threats to Maritime Navigation

It is worth noting that on May 29, Russian forces struck the Vanuatu-flagged freighter ANT, which was en route from a port in Odesa to Turkey with cargo. Earlier, a hostile drone also hit the cargo ship Ksl Deyang, which had a crew of Chinese nationals on board.

Officials from Ukraine's Ministry of Communities and Territories Development stated: 'Thankfully, no one was hurt. Both vessels remain in working condition and have continued on their journeys. These repeated attacks on civilian shipping once again confirm that Russia is deliberately threatening the safety of maritime logistics.'

Notably, in the first months of 2026, Russia has increased its drone strikes on port infrastructure more than tenfold. Special air defense units, which include port workers who are military veterans, continue to intercept and destroy enemy drones over Ukrainian ports.

The situation in the Black Sea remains tense, as Russian assaults on civilian ships keep endangering international navigation. These actions highlight the risks faced not only by Ukrainian vessels but also by foreign merchant ships heading to Ukrainian ports. The importance of the maritime corridor for Ukraine's economy and global food security cannot be overstated, prompting the international community to closely monitor developments in the region.

The recent attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea are part of a troubling pattern that has escalated in recent months. For instance, just before the strikes on the cargo ships, Russian forces targeted rescue boats involved in humanitarian efforts. This ongoing aggression raises serious concerns about the safety of maritime operations in the region. To understand the implications of these actions, read more about the assault on rescue boats that highlights the risks faced by maritime personnel and operations.