Türkiye concerned over Russian attack on Turkish vessel in Odesa Oblast

May 29, 2026 - 14:11

Türkiye's Foreign Ministry has expressed concern over the "escalation of the conflict" after a Turkish cargo vessel was struck by Russian drones in Odesa Oblast on the night of 28-29 May.

Source: Türkiye's Foreign Ministry in a statement, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The ministry said that a vessel owned by a Turkish company and sailing under the flag of Vanuatu, which was transporting dry cargo from Odesa Oblast to Türkiye, was struck by a drone. Two Turkish crew members sustained minor injuries in the attack.

Quote: "The condition of our citizens serving on board is being closely monitored by our Consulate General in Odesa."

Details: The ministry said it is conveying to "all relevant parties" its "concerns regarding the risks and threats posed to our region by the recent war related escalation observed in the Black Sea", as well as its "warnings about its potential negative repercussions" for Türkiye.

Quote: "We reiterate our warning to all parties to refrain from steps that could lead to an uncontrolled escalation of the conflict. Our calls for ensuring the safety of navigation for civilian vessels in the Black Sea and for ending the war through negotiations remain valid."

Background:

On the night of 28-29 May, Russia carried out a deliberate strike on a Turkish vessel travelling from a port in Odesa Oblast to Türkiye. A fire broke out as a result of the attack.
In December 2025, Türkiye's Foreign Ministry also expressed concern after a vessel owned by a Turkish company was damaged in the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk.
At the time, Türkiye's Foreign Ministry summoned representatives of the Ukrainian and Russian embassies to express concern over a series of attacks on vessels belonging to Russia's shadow fleet in the Black Sea.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan described those attacks as an "alarming escalation".