One killed, several injured as Russia strikes two foreign vessels in Black Sea

Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba reported this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.

"While sailing toward the port of Chornomorsk, a Russian attack drone struck a civilian vessel sailing under the flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis, which was heading to be loaded with grain under the Ukrainian maritime corridor. Unfortunately, one crew member was killed – a Syrian citizen. This is a horrific war crime!" the statement reads.

According to Kuleba, the vessel remains seaworthy and is heading to the nearest port.

Another vessel came under fire near the port of Odesa. The dry cargo ship, sailing under the flag of the Comoros, was transporting soybeans. Preliminary reports indicate there are injured. Rescue units have been dispatched to the scene.

Kuleba stressed that these are deliberate actions by Russia, which is striking civilian infrastructure, international shipping, and food logistics. Ukraine, for its part, is doing everything possible to ensure safety and fulfill its export commitments.

In the city of Chornomorsk, Odesa region, Russian forces attacked the Illichivsk Oil and Fat Plant overnight on December 25.

Photos: Oleksii Kuleba / Telegram