Russian Drones Strike Foreign Merchant Ships in Ukrainian Waters, Injuring One

Russia carried out another targeted drone attack against civilian maritime vessels near Ukrainian ports, Ukrainian officials confirmed on January 12.

According to Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba, a Russian unmanned aerial vehicle struck a Panama-flagged tanker that was anchored near a Ukrainian port awaiting a scheduled cargo of vegetable oil.

One crew member sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment. Maritime emergency teams are on-site, working to contain a fire that broke out aboard the vessel following the strike.

Read more

Category

Life in Ukraine

How Do You Take Your Morning Coffee? In Ukraine, It’s Brewed Under Russian Fire

Jan 07, 2026 11:33

A second vessel, sailing under the flag of San Marino, was also targeted. The ship, which had just departed the port carrying a load of corn, was reportedly able to continue its voyage. No casualties were reported in that incident.

Kuleba described the attacks as part of a deliberate Russian strategy to disrupt international trade and endanger maritime security.

“This is further evidence that Russia is intentionally targeting civilian ships,” he said. “Despite ongoing acts of aggression, Ukraine remains committed to operating its ports and fulfilling international obligations.”

The Ukrainian Seaports Authority has verified the incidents, noting that both ships were either docked or navigating near the port area during the attacks. Emergency response efforts remain underway.

Previously, Russian attack drones struck two foreign-flagged civilian cargo vessels near Ukraine’s Black Sea ports in the Odesa region, killing a Syrian crew member.

Truth is Under Attack

Help our reporters investigate lies, verify facts, and deliver truth from Ukraine’s frontlines.

DEFEND THE TRUTH