Tensions in the Black Sea escalated as Ukraine accused Russia of attacking a civilian grain vessel near NATO-member Romania. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reported that a Russian missile struck the ship just after it left Ukrainian territorial waters, headed for Egypt. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The Incident
The attack took place late Wednesday night when Russian Tupolev Tu-22 bombers fired cruise missiles at the vessel, according to Ukraine’s navy. This marks the first time a missile has directly hit a civilian vessel transporting grain at sea since Russia’s invasion began in 2022. Although some ships have been damaged in port attacks, this strike happened in international waters.
Global Condemnation
The U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, condemned the attack, calling it a “blatant violation of international law” and highlighting the threat it poses to global food security. The United Nations echoed this sentiment, urging for an end to attacks on civilian vessels and infrastructure.
Grain Ship Struck Near Romania
The ship, identified as the Aya bulk carrier, was damaged on its port side. It was located near the mouth of the Danube River, within Romania’s maritime economic zone, but not in Romanian territorial waters. Romania’s Naval Authority confirmed no assistance had been requested.
Impact on Wheat Prices
The attack on the grain vessel has further tightened supply concerns in the Black Sea export zone, contributing to rising wheat prices, which hit a two-month high.
Ukraine’s Efforts to Sustain Exports
Ukraine, a significant grain exporter, has struggled to maintain its exports due to Russian blockades in the Black Sea. Despite a U.N.-mediated deal to reopen ports, the agreement fell apart last year. In August 2023, Ukraine established its own shipping corridor to continue exporting grain, navigating through areas close to Romania and Bulgaria.
Call for Peace
Zelenskiy stressed the importance of protecting food security, writing on X (formerly Twitter), “Wheat and food security should never be targets for missiles.” This latest attack underscores the ongoing risks to global food supply amid the ongoing conflict.
