Tensions Rise as Russia Allegedly Attacks Turkish Vessel

Ukraine's navy has accused Russia of using drones to attack a Turkish vessel, Viva, in the Black Sea while it was carrying sunflower oil to Egypt. The attack occurred in Ukraine's economic zone. Fortunately, none of the 11 Turkish crew members were injured, and the ship remains en route to Egypt.

Tensions escalate as Ukraine's navy accuses Russia of deliberately targeting a Turkish civilian vessel in the Black Sea. The Viva, transporting sunflower oil to Egypt, faced an attack from Russian drones. The incident, which took place in Ukraine's exclusive economic zone, left no injuries among the 11 crew members on board.

The attack on the Turkish vessel occurred just a day after Russia launched strikes on two Ukrainian ports, damaging three other Turkish-owned ships, including sparking a fire on one. The Ukrainian navy confirmed ongoing communication with the Viva's captain amidst the heightened tensions.

These aggressive moves follow Russia's threat to sever Ukraine's sea access after Kyiv targeted three tankers from Moscow's 'shadow fleet.' This series of maritime confrontations underscores the deepening conflict between the two nations and the broader geopolitical ramifications.

(With inputs from agencies.)