Russia attacks Ukrainian search-and-rescue vessels, injuries reported

Russia has attacked two vessels belonging to Ukraine's Maritime Search and Rescue Service, leaving people injured.

Source: Oleksii Kuleba, Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine

Quote: "Russia has attacked two civilian search-and-rescue vessels, once again flagrantly violating international humanitarian law.

The enemy struck two Maritime Search and Rescue Service vessels that were carrying out a humanitarian mission within Ukraine's maritime corridor.

Sadly, there are injuries. Evacuation by Ukrainian Navy vessels is underway."

Details: Kuleba stressed that small coastal search-and-rescue vessels enjoy special protection under international humanitarian law. In particular, Article 27 of the 1949 Second Geneva Convention explicitly provides protection for vessels operated by a state or officially recognised rescue organisations and used exclusively for search-and-rescue operations and assistance to people at sea.

"This attack is further evidence of Russia's deliberate disregard for international law and poses a direct threat to the safe functioning of humanitarian maritime corridors in the Black Sea," the minister added.

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