Russian forces attacked two Ukrainian Maritime Search and Rescue Service vessels during a humanitarian mission in the Ukrainian Black Sea maritime corridor. Several people were injured in the action.
The Russian military opened fire on two small coastal vessels carrying out rescue operations in the region. The incident occurred while the teams were performing a task protected by international law.
Small coastal search and rescue vessels enjoy special protection under international humanitarian law. Article 27 of the Second Geneva Convention of 1949 establishes this safeguard for vessels used exclusively in search, rescue and care operations for people at sea.
Russia struck two vessels from the maritime search and rescue service that were carrying out a humanitarian mission in the Ukrainian maritime corridor of the Black Sea, as reported by The Kyiv Post. Several people suffered injuries.
Oleksiy Kuleba, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister responsible for restoration and Minister of Community and Territorial Development, reported via Telegram that Russian forces deliberately targeted the two small coastal rescue boats, which have special protection.
In fact, small coastal search and rescue vessels receive special protection under international humanitarian law. Article 27 of the Second Geneva Convention of 1949 explicitly provides for this safeguard for vessels used by the State or recognized rescue organizations in exclusive search, rescue and assistance operations at sea.
“A deliberate disrespect for Russia”
“This attack is further proof of Russia’s deliberate disregard for international law and represents a direct threat to the security of humanitarian maritime corridors in the Black Sea,” the minister said.
He later confirmed that the attack left crew members injured, although the exact number of casualties has not yet been released. Ukrainian Navy units were sent to the scene to carry out the emergency evacuation of injured sailors and to refloat the damaged vessel.
During the month of May, Russia launched ballistic missiles against at least two United Nations warehouses in Ukraine. Targets included infrastructure at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the World Food Program (WFP).
Richard Ragan, WFP representative in Ukraine, highlighted the frequency of these incidents. He reported that over the past 18 months, the World Food Program has recorded more than 84 attacks on its warehouses, vehicles and aid distribution points across the country.
