Ongoing Attacks on Ukraine’s Ports Damage Loading Bulker
Ukraine’s Black Sea ports are facing relentless assaults from Russian drones and missiles, intensifying the ongoing conflict despite diplomatic efforts from the United States and European leaders aimed at achieving a peace agreement. The Ukrainian Navy has reported significant damage to port infrastructure, with commercial vessels also caught in the crossfire. The situation remains critical as these ports play a vital role in Ukraine’s maritime operations.
Recent reports indicate that drone attacks targeted the ports of Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi overnight. These ports have gained increasing significance as alternatives to Odesa, which has suffered extensive damage since the onset of the invasion. Odesa itself has not been spared from the recent wave of attacks, with reports confirming at least one injury overnight. The ongoing assaults underscore the strategic importance of these ports in Ukraine’s efforts to maintain shipping routes and logistics.
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Commercial Vessels Affected by Hostilities
The Greek-owned bulk carrier, *Captain Karam*, was the latest vessel caught in the turmoil. The 56,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) ship, built in 2006 and registered in Panama, was in the process of loading wheat when the drone strikes began. The attack highlights the precarious situation for commercial shipping in the region, as vessels continue to operate under the threat of military action.
Another vessel, the *Emmarkis III*, also sustained damage during the attacks. This 73,000-dwt bulker, built in 2000, was detained by Ukraine in July 2022, with authorities asserting it was Russian-owned. A Ukrainian court ordered the seizure of the ship, and plans are underway to sell it to generate funds for Ukraine. Reports indicate that the *Emmarkis III* was damaged overnight at Chornomorsk, where it has remained under Ukrainian control. The ongoing conflict has not only jeopardized shipping operations but has also led to collateral damage, including the destruction of a privately owned vegetable oil storage tank in the port.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba has reiterated the government’s stance, stating that Russia’s campaign is aimed at disrupting logistics and complicating shipping operations. The attacks have extended beyond the ports, affecting manufacturing plants and other critical infrastructure across Ukraine. As the conflict continues, the safety of commercial vessels and the integrity of port facilities remain at significant risk, raising concerns about the broader implications for maritime trade in the region.
