According to Ukrinform, the information was released by Minister for Recovery, Infrastructure and Transport of Ukraine Mykola Kalashnyk on Telegram.

"Russia continues its deliberate attacks on Ukraine's civilian shipping and port infrastructure. Today, a civilian vessel flying the flag of Palau and carrying nearly 2,800 tons of corn was attacked twice while leaving a port in the Odesa region," Kalashnyk said.

The strikes caused a fire on board the vessel. According to preliminary information, seven crew members and a Ukrainian maritime pilot were rescued. Two sailors are currently considered missing, and a search-and-rescue operation is underway.

"This is yet another deliberate strike against civilian infrastructure and international shipping. Russia has once again demonstrated its complete disregard for international law, creating threats to the safety of navigation, global trade, and food security," Kalashnyk stressed.

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As previously reported by Ukrinform, Allseeds, one of Ukraine's largest producers and exporters of vegetable oils and oilseed meal, has suspended operations in the Odesa region due to the deteriorating security situation.