Key facts
- Two vessels, one Panamanian-flagged and one Barbadian-flagged, were damaged by an attack in Ukraine's Black Sea navigation corridor.
- The attacks were reportedly carried out by Russian drones, according to the Odesa regional governor.
- One damaged ship was carrying metal to Odesa, while the other was leaving the port with grain.
- A fire on one vessel was quickly extinguished by the crew; no injuries were reported.
- Both ships were able to continue their journeys after the incident.
Two ships sailing under Panamanian and Barbadian flags were damaged on Wednesday after being attacked while transiting Ukraine's Black Sea navigation corridor, the Ukrainian Ports Authority announced. The authority stated on Telegram that one vessel was headed for the port of Odesa with a cargo of metal, and the second was departing with grain.
Oleh Kiper, the governor of Odesa region, reported on Telegram that Russian drones were responsible for the attacks. A fire ignited on one of the ships but was promptly extinguished by the crew. No injuries were reported, and both vessels were able to continue their voyages.
Kiper also indicated that multiple waves of Russian drones targeted southern Odesa, striking civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. The Ukrainian Ports Authority asserted that Russia is attempting to disrupt the operation of the Ukrainian maritime corridor.