Turkey Calls on Kyiv Over Black Sea Civilian Vessel Attacks

Two Turkish‑operated vessels have been damaged in recent Black Sea incidents linked to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Following reports of attacks against civilian shipping, Turkish foreign authorities have contacted Kyiv’s ambassador to Ankara. The ministry emphasized the growing threat posed to merchant fleets operating in the region.

The confrontation escalates after the Turkish control vessel Lider Bordo Mavi sustained damage off the Russian coast of Tuapse on Wednesday. A second unit subsequently came under drone fire before being towed to the Turkish port of Samsun.

These strikes highlight the heightened dangers facing commercial traffic in a sea frequently used for military operations. Earlier this month, passenger and cargo vessels suffered drone attacks, including an incident where the crew of the Nadezhda cargo ship sustained serious injuries near Novorossiysk.

Despite historic efforts as a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv, Turkey remains focused on ensuring safe navigation. Officials stressed the essential need to protect lives, assets, shipping operations, and the marine environment.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has repeatedly called for a temporary end to hostilities in this contested maritime corridor, arguing that modern weaponry indiscriminately targets commercial vessels.

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