Tensions rise in the Black Sea as a Russian warship reportedly fired warning shots at a cargo ship en route to the port of Izmail in southern Ukraine. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has escalated concerns over maritime security and trade routes in the region.
The Russian Defence Ministry disclosed in a statement on Telegram that the warning shots were fired with light automatic weapons from a Russian warship in an attempt to halt the Palau-flagged vessel, named Sukru Okan. According to Moscow, the ship’s captain had ignored an order to stop for an inspection related to the transportation of prohibited goods.
Subsequently, a helicopter carrying Russian military personnel was dispatched to inspect the cargo ship. Despite the encounter, the vessel was ultimately permitted to proceed on its journey to the Ukrainian port, the Russian Defence Ministry noted.
This development coincides with Ukraine’s efforts to establish a safe “humanitarian corridor” in the Black Sea, aimed at facilitating the departure of trapped cargo ships. However, it remains uncertain whether Russia will endorse or respect this plan.
The port of Izmail, situated in the Odessa region, has become a crucial exit route for Ukrainian agricultural products since Moscow terminated a grain export agreement. The rift between Moscow and Kyiv escalated when Russia terminated the agreement allowing Ukrainian grain to leave its southern ports. This move came despite the blockade initiated by Russia. In response, both nations have issued warnings that ships travelling to or from their respective ports could be potential targets.
Since the termination of the grain export agreement, tensions in the Black Sea have surged. Both sides have reported increased attacks and military action. The Russian army targeted key ports such as Odessa, as well as river ports like Izmaïl and Reni in southern Ukraine. These attacks have been condemned by Ukraine, which alleges that Russia is attempting to obstruct its exports. In retaliation, Ukraine has also targeted Russian ships in the Black Sea, including an oil tanker and the port of Novorossiysk.
