A Russian missile strike on a cargo ship in the Black Sea has killed 10 people, Ukrainian authorities said on Monday. The attack targeted the Guinea-Bissau-flagged Golden Leo near the Ukrainian port city of Odesa.
The strike triggered a fire aboard the vessel and prompted an overnight search and rescue operation. Consequently, authorities confirmed the deaths of nine crew members and one Ukrainian pilot.
Merchant Ship Attack Raises Maritime Security Concerns
India’s foreign ministry later confirmed that four Indian nationals were among the victims. Furthermore, it condemned attacks that endanger civilian crews and freedom of navigation.
According to Ukrainian officials, the attack marked the deadliest strike on a merchant vessel in recent weeks. Russian attacks on cargo ships operating in the Black Sea have also intensified.
Foreign-flagged vessels use Ukraine’s remaining maritime export corridor along the Romanian and Bulgarian coastlines. Therefore, the route remains vital for transporting Ukrainian agricultural exports to global markets.
Officials estimate maritime exports account for more than two-thirds of Ukraine’s agricultural shipments. Consequently, disruptions threaten a major source of national revenue.
Ukraine Plans Stronger Protection For Civilian Shipping
Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhiy Koretskyi said authorities were preparing measures to improve maritime security. The proposed steps aim to better protect civilian vessels and their crews.
Meanwhile, the Odesa region continues to face frequent Russian attacks. Regional officials reported that 28 people died in strikes across the area during July.
Elsewhere, Russian attacks killed five more people in eastern and southern Ukraine. According to the United Nations, June recorded the highest civilian casualties since April 2022.
Ukraine also continued strikes on Russian targets. Officials claimed drones damaged logistics facilities and an oil depot near Moscow, while Russian authorities reported casualties following separate Ukrainian drone attacks.
