Key facts
- Ukraine's ambassador to Turkey was summoned by Ankara.
- The summons followed two strikes on Turkish-operated ships in the Black Sea.
- One vessel was hit on Aug. 26 near Tuapse, a Russian port city.
- A second boat sent to assist was also struck.
- Turkey has called for a maritime ceasefire and stressed the importance of safe voyages.
Ukraine's ambassador to Turkey was summoned to the Foreign Ministry in Ankara following two strikes on Turkish-operated ships in the Black Sea, according to Turkish state media agency Anadolu. The incidents occurred after a Turkish-operated vessel was hit on August 26 near Tuapse, a Russian port city frequently targeted by Ukraine. A second boat dispatched to tow the damaged ship was also struck. During the summons, Turkish officials issued warnings and emphasized the critical importance of ensuring safe maritime voyages in the Black Sea. Turkey has been mediating in the region, advocating for a maritime ceasefire amidst escalating attacks. The country has also seen its own flagged ships caught in the crossfire. Ukraine has targeted Russian shadow fleet vessels to disrupt the Kremlin's oil industry, while Russia's attacks on Ukrainian ports continue to impede maritime exports, particularly food and metal products, leading Ukraine to seek alternative export routes via the Danube River and railways.