Russia Claims Black Sea Cargo Ship Strike

The Russian Ministry of Defense said Tuesday that its forces had struck at least two Ukrainian vessels in the Black Sea, including a cargo ship allegedly carrying military equipment. According to Moscow, the port of Mykolaiv was also targeted in the attacks.

The ministry claimed drone strikes hit facilities at the Mykolaiv port's transshipment complex that were being used to receive and store military cargo, as well as fuel tanks intended for the Ukrainian armed forces.

Russia also said drones struck a cargo ship in the Black Sea about 11km east of Odesa that was allegedly transporting military equipment to the ports of Odesa and Chornomorsk.

Military activity in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov has intensified in recent weeks, with both Russia and Ukraine stepping up attacks on maritime targets. Ukraine has targeted Russian naval assets and fuel infrastructure, while Russia has increased strikes on Ukrainian ports and shipping.

Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the Russian claims.

(Reuters, bak)