Ukraine Accuses Russia of Drone Attack on Turkish Civilian Ship
Alleged Strike in the Black Sea
Ukraine’s navy has accused Russia of deliberately targeting a civilian Turkish vessel with a drone attack in the Black Sea. According to a statement released on Telegram, the ship, named Viva, was carrying sunflower oil to Egypt and had 11 Turkish citizens on board at the time of the incident.
Despite the strike, Ukrainian authorities confirmed that no one was injured, and the vessel continued its journey to Egypt.
Violation of Maritime Law Alleged
The navy said the attack took place in Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone, well outside the coverage of Ukrainian air defence systems. As a result, officials accused Moscow of violating international maritime laws by striking a non-military vessel in open waters.
“This was a deliberate attack on a civilian ship,” the statement said, highlighting growing concerns over safety in the Black Sea.
Ports Hit and Ships Damaged
Meanwhile, Ukraine reported further damage on Friday after Russian forces attacked two Ukrainian ports. The strikes damaged three Turkish-owned ships, according to naval officials. One of the vessels caught fire, causing significant destruction.
These incidents have raised alarm among international shipping operators and regional partners.
Diplomacy Continues Amid Escalation
The reported attacks come as diplomatic efforts intensify. US President Donald Trump’s senior envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner are scheduled to hold high-level talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders in Berlin this weekend.
A US official said the discussions will focus on a possible peace deal, even as fighting and maritime tensions continue.
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