The civilian search and rescue vessel Sapfir was damaged in a Russian drone attack at a port in Ukraine’s Odesa region, according to a statement released by Ukraine’s infrastructure ministry on 13 September.
No injuries were reported, according to preliminary information. The extent of the damage and the exact port where the vessel was located have not been publicly disclosed.
The ministry said Sapfir performs exclusively civilian search and rescue duties and carried clear markings identifying its role in accordance with international maritime conventions.
Ukrainian officials condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of international humanitarian and maritime law. The ministry warned that attacks on civilian vessels and port facilities threaten the lives of seafarers, rescuers and port workers, as well as the safety of international shipping.
Ukraine is documenting the circumstances of the incident and collecting evidence. The ministry said it would inform the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and international partners and seek an appropriate response.
