Russian Missile Attack Damages Grain Vessel in Ukrainian Port, Killing Four

A Russian missile attack on Tuesday caused significant damage to a grain vessel in the Black Sea port of Odesa, resulting in the tragic loss of four lives, Ukrainian authorities confirmed.

The ballistic missile struck the MJ Pinar bulk carrier, which was in the process of loading wheat destined for Algeria. The attack claimed the lives of four Syrian nationals and left one other Syrian and a Ukrainian injured, according to Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba, who shared the heartbreaking news on Telegram.

“Russia’s aggression extends to targeting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, including ports that play a vital role in ensuring global food security,” Kuleba emphasized.

Global grain merchant Louis Dreyfus Company issued a statement via email, revealing that the vessel was being loaded at its Brooklyn-Kiev terminal within Odesa port when the missile struck, causing damage to the terminal infrastructure as well.

LDC confirmed the safety of its terminal employees and expressed condolences for the crew members of the chartered vessel who lost their lives in the attack.

Kuleba mentioned that another vessel was also impacted by the attack, although specific details were not provided at the time.

International Maritime Organization Condemns Attack

In response to the tragic incident, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez issued a statement expressing profound sadness over the loss of seafarers’ lives in Odesa.

Dominguez emphasized the essential role of seafarers in maintaining the global flow of vital goods and stressed the importance of safeguarding their safety amid conflicts beyond their control.

The IMO reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of all maritime industry workers and urged all parties involved to prevent further acts of violence against innocent seafarers and shipping.

Impact on Ukrainian Grain Exports

Ukraine, a significant grain exporter like Russia, has faced challenges in maintaining its maritime exports during the ongoing conflict, with Russian strikes targeting ports despite efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.

Chicago wheat futures, a key global price benchmark, remained relatively stable following the attack on the grain vessel in Odesa.

As the conflict persists, Ukraine reported additional Russian strikes overnight, underscoring the continued violence in the region despite diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.

(Reuters – Reporting by Yuliia Dysa, Pavel Polityuk, and Gus Trompiz; Editing by Hugh Lawson) (additional reporting by staff)