Russian Attacks on Merchant Ships Near Odesa Result in Injuries and Escalation Concerns
A Turkish-owned cargo ship named Ant was set on fire, resulting in minor injuries to two crewmembers, as Russia continues its attacks on merchant ships near Ukraine. The incident occurred off the coast of Ukraine on May 28, as the ship was en route to Turkey from the Odesa area. The Ukrainian Navy intervened to evacuate the injured crew and assist in extinguishing the fire. The vessel, built in 2006 and sailing under the flag of Vanuatu, has a history of operating in the Black Sea and making port calls in Ukraine. This attack is part of a broader wave of Russian aggression across Ukraine, with reports of 232 drones and one ballistic missile targeting 14 locations. Turkey's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed concerns over the escalation and reiterated calls for the safety of civilian navigation in the Black Sea. 
