PORTS

Odessa Port Missile Strike: Four Crew Members Killed

On the evening of March 11, 2025, Russia launched a ballistic missile attack on the Port of Odessa, impacting ongoing peace negotiations. The Barbados-flagged bulk carrier MJ Pinar sustained significant damage, resulting in the deaths of four crew members. One crew member and a pilot service employee were also injured.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the attack occurred at approximately 20:17 and struck the intersection of berths 34 and 35.

Preliminary reports indicate that MJ Pinar had arrived from Algeria to load 30,000 tons of wheat. Ukrainian officials stated that among the four casualties, three were believed to be Syrian nationals, while one was Ukrainian. The vessel had a total of 12 crew members on board at the time of the attack.

It is alleged that the missile used in the strike was an Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead. The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (АМПУ) reported extensive damage to the vessel and port infrastructure, including the quay wall, grain terminal conveyor, and at least four grain silos. Emergency response teams were deployed, and the fire caused by the attack was quickly brought under control.

MJ Pinar, built in 2009, has a gross tonnage of 19,972 and a deadweight of 30,465 tons. The vessel operates under the call sign 8PV02 and MMSI number 314818000. Initial reports of the incident were shared on the Facebook page of АМПУ but were later removed. Investigations into the attack are ongoing, with international organizations condemning strikes on civilian infrastructure.

Security analysts highlight that this incident violates international maritime law and increases risks for commercial shipping in the Black Sea. The condition of the injured crew members is being monitored, and medical facilities have been prepared to provide necessary treatment. Further details on the investigation are expected in the coming days.