Sybiha Condemns Russian Drone Strike on Turkish-Owned Vessel Carrying Corn

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha of Ukraine harshly criticized Russia's drone strike on a Turkish-owned cargo vessel that sank in the Black Sea, carrying corn. The incident, which occurred on Monday, Oct. 5, resulted in the death of the ship's captain, while the fate of another crew member remains unknown. Russian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that two Russian drones had targeted the ship, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protection of civilian shipping routes.

Sybiha warned that such attacks on vessels carrying Ukrainian agricultural exports could lead to severe food insecurity and malnutrition in vulnerable communities worldwide. He emphasized that Ukraine has repeatedly proposed measures to enhance safety in the Black Sea but noted that Russia's response has only expanded the scope of its attacks.

Sybiha called for increased pressure on Russia, stronger safeguards for civilian shipping, and accountability for these attacks. The attack on the Royad Mammadov, a 140-meter vessel initially transporting grain from Ukraine to Italy, is particularly egregious given Turkey's efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote peace in the region.

Despite maintaining diplomatic relations with both Russia and Ukraine, Turkey has repeatedly urged both sides to halt attacks on commercial ships. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has repeatedly called for a mutual moratorium on such attacks. So far, Russia has rejected all ceasefire proposals. Turkey and the UN are set to hold new talks in early October, aiming to create a ceasefire in the Black Sea to protect grain shipments amid rising global food prices.