Russia reportedly launched another attack on the Odessa Port in southern Ukraine later in the day. According to local sources, the attack caused additional damage to the port infrastructure, while a fire was quickly brought under control by firefighting teams. Authorities stated that
Russia has reportedly launched another attack on the Odessa Port in southern Ukraine later in the day. According to local sources, the attack caused additional damage to the port infrastructure, while a fire was quickly brought under control by firefighting teams. Authorities stated that the attack targeted civilian port facilities and disrupted commercial activities.
Media reports indicate that the Cenk T vessel, which was struck on Friday, was carrying generators belonging to ASKA, a manufacturer of diesel, gasoline, and gas generators. The reports mentioned that the generators were sent to support Ukraine's damaged electricity system. It was emphasized that large-scale power outages lasting more than 10 to 12 hours were occurring in many regions of Ukraine.
Meanwhile, it was reported that a Turkish-owned oil tanker sailing from Ukraine to Egypt was also hit by a Russian drone. The Ukrainian Navy released footage of the attack, stating that the crew was unharmed and that the vessel continued its voyage despite sustaining damage.
The attacked product tanker, named Viva, has a deadweight tonnage of 16,116 dwt, is registered under the Tuvalu flag, and belongs to the Turkish shipping company Chemtankers Shipping. Built in 1999, the vessel has been operating under the Turkish company since 2023.
The Ukrainian Navy emphasized that the vessel was loaded with sunflower oil and that the attack occurred in a recognized maritime corridor established for international commercial vessels. Officials reported that contact with the ship's captain was ongoing and that search and rescue units were ready to intervene if necessary.
Vanguard Tech, known for its security and maritime risk analyses, highlighted in an assessment released yesterday that commercial vessels calling at the ports of Odessa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdennyi (Yujnıy) are at serious risk. The statement noted that these ports have recently been subjected to sudden, intense, and direct attacks targeting port infrastructure, creating unpredictable dangers for both ships and crews.
Vanguard Tech indicated that the attacks are not limited to military targets, as the targeting of grain terminals, storage areas, docks, and loading-unloading facilities directly affects commercial maritime transport. The company stated that the risk level for vessels entering and exiting these ports in the northwestern Black Sea should be assessed as "high."
Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin, following recent attacks on tankers belonging to what is claimed to be a "secret fleet" in the Black Sea, threatened that steps could be taken to completely cut off Ukraine's access to the sea. This statement has raised concerns that tensions in the region could escalate to a new phase, affecting not only military aspects but also global trade and energy transportation.
Experts warn that targeting the ports in Odessa and its surroundings could disrupt Ukraine's agricultural exports and increase insurance costs for foreign-flagged commercial vessels operating in the Black Sea, potentially leading to voyage cancellations.
With the rising security risks in the region, it has been reported that maritime companies and shipowners are re-evaluating routes, schedules, and security protocols for Black Sea voyages.
Source: www.denizhaber.com