The Ukraine characterized Russia’s decision to board a cargo vessel in the Black Sea on Sunday as piracy and ill-advised, marking the latest flare-up over the sea’reach lanes since approving — last month – despite escalating tensions over nimble grain pacts.
The Sukra Okan, a dry cargo ship flying the flag of Palau, was stopped by Moscow to ensure it was not transporting “prohibited goods” to Ukraine.
The international community was urged by Ukraine to condemn Russia’s actions as a criminal act.
Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated on Twitter that the Russian government’s deliberate attack and forced inspection of Sukru Okan international civilian bulk carrier, which was headed to Izmail port in Ukraine, is a violation of international law of the sea, including piracy.
Podolyak appealed to the international community and everyone involved in the incident to be identified, emphasizing the gravity of the crime.
“Ukraine will draw all the necessary conclusions and choose the most appropriate response,” he stated.
Following Moscow’s withdrawal from a deal that permitted the safe passage of Ukrainian grain exports into the Black Sea, Russia and Ukraine have initiated attacks on shipping and ports.
Earlier this month, Ukrainian sea drones launched an attack on a significant naval base in Russia. Kyiv then proceeded to strike one of Russia’s largest oil tankers within hours.
Key port infrastructure in southern Ukraine has been targeted by Moscow through strikes, further restricting export trade.
Ships bound for Ukraine’s Black Sea ports have been deemed military targets by Russia’S defense ministry, while Ukraine has stated that any Russian attacks on sea operations will be justified because they occur in the territory of Kyiv.