Six sailors killed in Russian strike on ship in Black Sea

A Russian missile strike in the Black Sea near Odesa has resulted in the deaths of six sailors, with four others still missing. The attack targeted a civilian vessel sailing under the Guinea-Bissau flag, according to Ukrainian officials.

Mykola Kalashnik, Ukraine's Minister of Restoration, Infrastructure, and Transport, announced the casualties on Sunday. "Eight crew members were rescued, two of them are injured. Unfortunately, it is currently known that six sailors have died, and four more are considered missing," Kalashnik stated. A search and rescue operation is reportedly continuing.

The Ukrainian Navy had previously reported the attack, identifying the vessel as the "Golden Leo." The ship is owned by a Turkish company and was en route from a Ukrainian port after loading corn. Reports indicate that 18 people were on board: 17 Syrian and Indian citizens, along with one Ukrainian navigator.

This incident occurs amidst ongoing conflict and heightened tensions in the Black Sea region, a critical corridor for grain exports. The attack on a civilian vessel raises further concerns about maritime safety and the impact of the conflict on international trade routes.

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Eight crew members were rescued, two of them are injured. Unfortunately, it is currently known that six sailors have died, and four more are considered missing.