Russian forces attacked transport infrastructure and civilian vessels in the Odessa region on Monday, injuring 13 people in the latest strike against Ukraine's maritime infrastructure, regional and government officials said.
Odesa Regional Military Administration head Oleh Kiper said the number of casualties had risen during the day.
"Unfortunately, the number of people injured as a result of the enemy's cynical strike on a civilian transport infrastructure facility continues to grow. We now know of 13 people who have been wounded," Kiper said.
Four of the injured were hospitalized. One remains in serious condition, while the others are reported to be in moderate condition. Emergency services continue to deal with the aftermath of the attack.
Ukraine's Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories said the strikes targeted transport infrastructure and civilian vessels at ports in the Odessa region and the Danube region.
According to the ministry, Russia has already carried out five attacks on port infrastructure, three attacks on civilian vessels in port and two attacks on ships using the Ukrainian maritime corridor during the first days of August.
The ministry said the campaign had intensified throughout July, when authorities recorded 67 attacks on port facilities, 35 attacks on civilian vessels in port and 22 attacks on ships operating through the Ukrainian maritime corridor.
Officials noted that Russian forces are increasingly striking civilian vessels that are no longer engaged in cargo operations but remain alongside berths or at anchor after sustaining damage in previous attacks.
"This demonstrates a deliberate campaign to disrupt the operation of Ukrainian ports, intimidate international shipowners and undermine confidence in the safety of civilian shipping," the ministry said.
