Turkiye voices concern after civilian cargo ships attacked in Black Sea

Turkiye on Tuesday voiced strong concern over drone attacks targeting two commercial vessels owned by Turkish companies in the Black Sea, warning that the widening impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict is threatening civilian shipping and regional stability.



In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said the merchant ships Yasar and Nadejda were attacked on Monday by unmanned aerial vehicles after departing Russia's Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.



The ministry said several crew members, including Turkish nationals, were injured in the incident. It added that Turkish authorities are closely monitoring the condition of the wounded and remain in contact with relevant authorities.



"We are deeply concerned that the war between Russia and Ukraine is spreading further into the Black Sea, also affecting civilian vessels," the statement said.



The ministry urged all parties involved, particularly Russia and Ukraine, to take concrete steps to safeguard maritime navigation and prevent further attacks on civilian vessels.