A Russian missile strike on a Cyprus-owned ship entering the Black Sea port of Odesa has resulted in the tragic death of one person, Ukrainian officials confirmed.
The vessel in question, KMAX RULER, was struck by an anti-radar missile, claiming the life of a 43-year-old harbor pilot. Three Filipino crew members and a port worker were also injured in the attack.
According to authorities, the missile strike occurred on Wednesday at 16:45 local time while the ship was stationed at the port. Odesa's Regional Prosecutor's Office is currently conducting an investigation into the incident.
The targeted ship, KMAX RULER, is part of Cyprus Sea Lines and is owned by prominent Cypriot shipowner Andreas Hatzigiannis, who also serves as the president of the Cyprus Shipowners' Union.
This recent attack further exacerbates the heightened risks faced by ships entering and leaving the port of Odesa. Since Russia withdrew from an agreement earlier this year that ensured the safe export of Ukrainian grain, vessels have been vulnerable to Russian assaults. In response, Ukraine has established a temporary corridor to facilitate the safe passage of ships in and out of its ports.
Meanwhile, the Russian defense ministry has declared all cargo ships bound for Ukraine in the Black Sea as potential military targets.
The incident marks the 21st deliberate assault on port infrastructure since Russia withdrew from the agreement in July, as reported by Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov.
In another distressing incident on Sunday, Russian airstrikes on Odesa caused significant damage to a historic museum and resulted in at least eight people sustaining injuries, according to Ukrainian officials.
As tensions persist in the region, concerns remain over the safety and security of ships entering the port of Odesa amidst ongoing hostilities.
