Grain Vessels Attacked Near Russia's Black Sea Ports

At least five grain vessels have been attacked near Russia's Black Sea ports of Novorossiysk and Tuapse, highlighting the growing risks associated with shipping grain through Russian waters.

The attacks occurred since the start of the week, with four vessels targeted on Tuesday morning and another on Monday, according to Bloomberg sources who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information.

Among the attacked vessels is the Marshall Islands-flagged Fehu, which was hit after leaving Novorossiysk carrying wheat but was able to continue its voyage. The Russian bulk carrier Victoria V, capable of carrying up to 7,000 tons of grain, was also attacked in the port of Novorossiysk.

The attacks come as Moscow seeks to maintain grain exports amid intensifying Ukrainian strikes. Since July 10, drone attacks have completely halted grain shipments from Russia's Azov Sea ports, which account for about a quarter of the country's grain exports.