Ukraine Accuses Russia of Missile Strike on Grain Vessel in Black Sea

Ukraine has accused Russia of using strategic bombers to hit a civilian grain vessel with a missile in the Black Sea, near Romania's maritime economic zone. The incident, involving a vessel carrying Ukrainian grain to Egypt, reportedly caused damage but no casualties. This could escalate tensions between Russia and NATO.

Ukraine has accused Russia of employing strategic bombers to target a civilian grain vessel with a missile in the Black Sea, within NATO member Romania's maritime economic zone. This attack has been labeled a 'brazen attack' on freedom of navigation by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who said the vessel was transporting Ukrainian grain to Egypt and had just left Ukrainian territorial waters when it was hit. Initial assessments reported no casualties.

No immediate response was received from Russian authorities. If confirmed, this incident would significantly heighten the already tense relations between Moscow and the NATO military alliance. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, NATO has balanced between preventing escalation and supporting Ukraine.

British maritime security firm, Ambrey, identified the vessel as a Saint Kitts and Nevis-flagged bulk carrier departing from the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk. The vessel sustained damage to its port side, including to a cargo hold and a crane.

(With inputs from agencies.)