Russian Strike Near Odesa Kills 10 on Cargo Ship

The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority announced on Monday that the number of fatalities from the Russian strike targeting a ship near the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa has increased to ten.

The vessel, flying the flag of Guinea-Bissau and carrying a cargo of corn, had a crew composed of sailors from India and Syria. It was attacked late Sunday evening, according to Reuters.

Ukrainian officials stated that rescue teams managed to save eight crew members from the ship.

Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Defense declared that its forces had targeted fuel storage facilities at the port of Odesa during an operation aimed at infrastructure used by Ukrainian forces.

In an official statement, the ministry said the strike hit fuel and lubricant tanks at Odesa port, which it claimed were designated to supply the Ukrainian armed forces.

The ministry added that the attack also included facilities at other ports in the Odesa region, as well as ships it said were transporting military shipments to Ukraine.

There has been no immediate independent confirmation regarding the extent of damage or casualties resulting from the strike.

The targeting of Odesa port occurs amid escalating Russian attacks on Ukrainian Black Sea ports, which serve as a vital artery for Ukraine’s trade and exports, particularly grain.

In recent days, strikes against port infrastructure and vessels have increased alongside reciprocal escalations in the Black Sea, raising concerns about further disruptions to shipping and supply routes.