**Title: Turkish Foreign Ministry Condemns Drone Attacks on Civilian Cargo Ships in the Black Sea**
**Date: April 8, 2026**
The Turkish Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned recent drone attacks on two civilian cargo vessels in the Black Sea, which resulted in injuries to crew members. The ministry's statement, released on Tuesday, highlighted the escalating tensions in the region and the increasing risks to civilian shipping.
The incidents occurred late Monday, shortly after the vessels, identified as Yasar and Nadezhda, departed from the Russian port of Novorossiysk. The Yasar sails under the Panamanian flag, while the Nadezhda is registered in Cameroon, but both are owned by Turkish companies. The ministry reported that several crew members sustained injuries during the attacks and assured that their conditions are being closely monitored.
In its statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has been affecting maritime safety in the Black Sea. "We are deeply concerned about the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine in the Black Sea, which is affecting civilian shipping despite our numerous warnings," the ministry said. It urged all involved parties to take immediate and concrete measures to ensure the safety of navigation in the area, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize vital food supplies.
The Black Sea has seen a marked increase in military activity and strikes on commercial vessels in recent weeks. This includes a notable incident in late June, when a Turkish fishing vessel was attacked near the Crimean coast, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. The situation has raised alarms in Turkey, which has previously warned of an "uncontrolled escalation" in the region following a drone attack on a Turkish cargo ship at the end of May.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to heightened tensions and military operations in the Black Sea, with both sides reportedly stepping up their strikes on cargo vessels. The Turkish government has been vocal about its concerns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety for civilian shipping in the face of rising hostilities.
As the situation develops, Turkey continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions to ensure maritime security and prevent further escalation in the Black Sea. The Turkish Foreign Ministry's call for urgent action reflects the broader implications of the conflict, not only for regional stability but also for global trade and food security.
The attacks on civilian vessels underscore the precarious nature of shipping routes in the Black Sea amid ongoing military confrontations. Turkey's proactive stance highlights its role as a regional player seeking to mediate and promote safety in a critical maritime corridor.