Ukraine has launched a significant overnight drone attack on the Russian Black Sea naval and commercial hub of Novorossiysk, putting two major grain terminals out of operation. The attack, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed responsibility for, targeted the Novorossiysk naval base, described as the last major stronghold of the Russian fleet in the Black Sea.

Russia’s Response

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has threatened to seize European vessels in retaliation if European countries begin seizing Russian merchant ships. This warning comes as Russia staged large-scale war games in the Pacific, involving over 13,000 personnel and around 60 ships, submarines, and support vessels.

The developments highlight the growing battle at sea, with Ukraine targeting Russian naval and export hubs, while Moscow warns of potential retaliation and flexes its naval power in the Pacific. The conflict is increasingly extending beyond the front lines into strategic ports and international shipping routes.

The attack on Novorossiysk resulted in the deaths of at least two people, including an 8-year-old child, and damaged over two dozen residential buildings, four businesses, and educational facilities. The city’s water supply was also suspended.

Global Implications

The situation has sparked concerns over potential disruptions to Russian grain exports, with Chicago wheat futures rising roughly 3% amid the uncertainty. The European Union has expanded sanctions against hundreds of Russian vessels, detaining some ships and their crews for checks, prompting Russia’s warning of retaliation.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.