Attack on "Grain Corridor:" Russia hits Turkish vessel in Black Sea

Russia again violated the laws of war and international maritime law, by attacking a civilian vessel in the Black Sea. The target was the dry cargo ship VIVA, which was sailing along an agreed maritime corridor.

The Ukrainian Navy reported the incident.

Strike in open waters

The attack took place on Saturday, December 13, during daylight hours. The vessel VIVA was en route to Egypt carrying sunflower oil. The strike occurred not in port but in open waters, within Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone.

“Russia carried out a targeted UAV strike… beyond the reach of Ukrainian air defences,” the Navy said.

The incident shows that Russian forces intentionally strike where civilian vessels are least protected.

Turkish crew on board

The incident drew particular attention as the vessel’s crew consisted of citizens of the Republic of Türkiye.

“There were 11 Turkish citizens on the vessel,” the military said.

The Ukrainian Navy quickly contacted the ship’s captain. Maritime rescue services were put on alert, but evacuation was not needed. No crew members were injured, and the vessel continued toward its destination in Egypt.

Violation of the laws of war

Ukrainian military stresses the attack represents a blatant violation of the San Remo Manual on International Law Applicable to Armed Conflicts at Sea. Russia is deliberately encroaching on freedom of navigation.

“But Ukraine will not be broken — we will stand firm and defend our freedom and our right to a peaceful sea,” the Ukrainian Navy said.