Turkish-Owned Ship Hit in Odessa: Ankara Warns of War Expansion Risk

WISE NEWS PRESS / ANKARA, TURKEY — Dec. 12, 2025

A Panama-flagged cargo ship owned by the Turkish company Cenk Ro-Ro was hit by a Russian missile while docked at Ukraine's Odessa port, prompting Ankara to warn that such attacks increase the risk of the war spreading across the region.

While no casualties were reported, the strike has reignited concerns regarding the safety of commercial navigation in the Black Sea. The incident occurred just hours after a telephone conversation between Turkish and Russian leaders, highlighting the volatile nature of the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Company statement and damage assessment

According to statements from Cenk Ro-Ro, the vessel named "CENK T" was struck by an Iskander-type missile while moored at the port. The ship, which operates regular passenger and cargo routes between Turkey and Ukraine, sustained physical damage.

Company officials confirmed that the crew and truck drivers on board were evacuated immediately, and no injuries or fatalities were reported among Turkish citizens. The Turkish Consulate General in Odessa is reportedly monitoring the situation closely and providing necessary support to the citizens involved.

Ankara warns of conflict expansion

The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a written statement shortly after the attack, condemning the strike on the Chornomorsk Port area and pointing out the threat it poses to broader maritime security.

The Ministry stated:

"The damage to a foreign-flagged ship owned by a Turkish company in the attack carried out today on Ukraine's Chornomorsk Port indicates the justification of our concerns regarding the spread of the ongoing war in our region to the Black Sea surface, as well as maritime security and freedom of navigation."

Rising security concerns in the Black Sea

Since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, the Black Sea has remained a zone of intense conflict over the control of strategic shipping lanes. Although past diplomatic efforts, such as the grain corridor agreements brokered with Turkey's support, offered temporary solutions, continued missile strikes on port infrastructure and vessels continue to threaten global trade routes.

In its statement, the Ministry reiterated the need to end the war immediately and called for an arrangement to prevent escalation: "We recall the need for an arrangement to suspend attacks targeting energy and port infrastructures of the parties to ensure navigation safety."

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