Escalating conflicts in the Black Sea target commercial vessels
With the intensification of the Russia-Ukraine War, approximately 300 ships were attacked in the Black Sea in July and August 2026. Since February 2022, 43 Turkish-linked vessels have been targeted.
The intensification of conflicts between Russia and Ukraine in the Black Sea has left maritime trade in the region facing serious security risks. Mutual moves by the parties toward strategic targets have led to the striking of both civilian and military vessels, with approximately 300 ships affected by attacks during the July and August 2026 period.
In the region where 35 commercial vessels were hit in July alone, Turkey is among the countries directly affected by the attacks. Since February 2022, a total of 43 ships that are Turkish-owned, Turkish-operated, or under the Turkish flag have been the target of attacks.
The conflicts in the region are particularly complicating the trade of grain, feed raw materials, vegetable oils, coal, iron and steel products, fertilizers, and oil. This situation in the Black Sea, where Turkey conducts intensive commercial activities, is causing disruptions in supply chains.