Ukrainian sailor killed and three missing as vessel sinks off Romanian coast after drone attack
One Ukrainian sailor died, three went missing, and four others were hospitalised after vessel Khoryv sank off Romanian Constanța. Early reports indicate that a drone strike may have been the cause.
Source: European Pravda
Update: As of 18:30, search and rescue operations were ongoing. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reported that three Ukrainian crew members remain missing.
The consul is maintaining constant contact with the authorities of Romania. The embassy has also established contact with the manager of the employer company. Its HR department, together with lawyers, is establishing contact with the relatives of the deceased and other crew members.
Details: The press service for MFA said that the Comoros-flagged merchant vessel Khoryv, which was en route from a Turkish port, sank near the Romanian city of Constanța.
There were 14 crew members on board at the time. The MFA noted that early reports indicate a drone strike may have been the cause of the sinking.
Quote from the MFA: "The Embassy of Ukraine in Romania received information from the Romanian side about one deceased sailor – a citizen of Ukraine."
Details: The press service noted that two other crew members – citizens of Ukraine – do not require medical treatment. It is also reported that four citizens of Ukraine, including the ship's captain, were taken to hospital.
Quote from the MFA: "We are grateful to the Romanian services for rescuing the Ukrainians. The embassy continues to establish the circumstances of the incident, the whereabouts and health status of the rescued citizens and remains in contact with the authorities of Romania."
Background:
- Due to Russian attacks on civilian merchant ships, the European Parliament asked the EU to consider launching a naval operation in the Black Sea.
- NATO stated that the Alliance would step up surveillance in the Black Sea amid recent attacks on vessels.
- Meanwhile, Romania proposes that NATO Black Sea states establish a joint military command and lead it on a rotational basis.
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