Ukraine: The Ukrainian army has reportedly said that Russia has fired a Liberian civilian ship entering a port in the Black Sea Region of Odesa.
The attack resulted in the death of the harbour pilot and injuries to the four members of the ship’s crew.
“The missile hit the structure of a civilian vessel flying the Liberian flag as it was entering the port. Three crew members, citizens of the Philippines, were injured; one of them was hospitalised. The pilot was killed and another port worker was injured,” the army stated.
Since the United Nations (UN) brokered deal, which ensured safe passage through the Black Sea, collapsed in July 2023, Russia and Ukraine increased their military actions in the region.
“Continuing the terror of civilian shipping, the enemy insidiously fired an Kh-31P anti-radar missile in the direction of one of the ports of Odesa region from tactical aircraft in the Black Sea,” the Ukrainian army said.
Russia issued a warning that ships entering the Black Sea would be considered military targets following the breakdown of the grain deal.
Later, Ukraine declared the launch of a new “humanitarian corridor,” a sea route for civilian vessels, avoiding international waters. However, Russia continued to attack Ukrainian grain-exporting ports and infrastructure.
In the meantime, the European Union’s Executive suggested initiating formal membership talks with Ukraine after meeting final requirements. It shows the EU’s visible support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.
“This is a strong and historic step that paves the way to a stronger EU with Ukraine as its member,” Ukrainian President Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared on social media.
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