On 12 Dec 2023 a Russian missile strike destroyed the Turkish‑owned cargo ship CENK T in the port of Odesa, Ukraine.
Russian strike on Turkish vessel
Reuters reported on 12 Dec that Russia fired missiles and drones at the civilian cargo ship CENK T in the port of Odesa, a Black Sea location of Ukraine. The ship, flying the Panamanian flag, was owned by Turkish marine‑services firm Cenk Denizcilik and was destroyed, with a fire breaking out as a consequence.
Cenk Denizcilik confirms destruction
The Turkish company confirmed the loss and stated that the vessel was sailing between Karasu and Odesa. The incident was reported to the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which promptly issued a response.
Turkish Foreign Ministry statement
In a 12 Dec statement, the ministry reiterated concerns about the war’s spread to the Black Sea and its impact on maritime safety and freedom of navigation. It noted that ship crew and truck drivers aboard were evacuated, no Turkish citizens were injured, and the Odesa consulate is monitoring the situation.
International concerns over ship attacks
Sources highlight that attacks on commercial vessels signal a dangerous escalation and pose serious threats to maritime operations in the region.
