Ukraine called Russia's boarding of a cargo vessel in the Black Sea on Sunday "a deliberate attack" and "an act of piracy," marking the latest flare-up over the sea's shipping lanes since a key grain deal collapsed last month. Moscow has said it stopped the vessel, a Palau-flagged dry cargo ship called the Sukra Okan, to ensure it was not carrying "prohibited goods" to Ukraine. Ukraine called for the international community to recognize Russia's actions as a crime. Earlier this month, Ukrainian sea drones attacked a major naval base in Russia. For its part, Moscow has pummeled key port infrastructure with strikes in southern Ukraine, further limiting its ability to make exports.

Source: CNN August 14, 2023 01:26 UTC