Azerbaijani nationals among vessel crews

In a statement responding to reports about the vessels struck in Taganrog Bay, the ministry said a total of 25 Azerbaijani nationals were among the crews of the two ships, although neither vessel is owned by Azerbaijan.

Ukraine reports drone strikes on vessels

Earlier on Friday, Ukraine said its drones had targeted five vessels in the ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk, as well as in coastal waters of Russian-controlled territories.

Allegations of military and grain transport

Robert Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s drone forces, said the strikes hit dry cargo ships and a tanker allegedly involved in transporting military cargo, fuel and what he described as stolen Ukrainian grain. He added that the vessels had their names painted over and their radar systems switched off.