Russian strike on civilian maize vessel: ten bodies recovered and brought ashore

VALENTYNA ROMANENKO - 20 July, 15:49

Photo: Odesa Oblast Military Administration

The bodies of the pilot and nine crew members of a civilian merchant vessel struck by Russian missiles near Odesa have been recovered during a search-and-rescue operation.

Source: Oleh Kiper, Head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "The bodies have been taken to the forensic medical examination bureau. I extend my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed. A further eight crew members were evacuated to shore immediately after the attack."

Details: Kiper reported that the people were simply doing their ordinary job, transporting maize and posed no threat whatsoever to Russian forces.

Quote: "But for the aggressor, there is no difference between a military target and civilians. This treacherous strike is yet more confirmation of that."

Background:

The Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel departed a Ukrainian port on 19 July after loading maize. On board were 17 crew members – citizens of Syria and India – along with a Ukrainian pilot from Delta-Pilot, a branch of the state-owned Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA).
On 19 July, Russia fired missiles on the civilian vessel, committing yet another war crime.

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