On 12 December 2025, the Black Sea witnessed a dramatic escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict when a Turkish-owned RoPax vessel, the Cenk T, was set ablaze following a Russian missile and drone attack on the port of Chornomorsk in Ukraine’s Odesa region. This incident has significant implications for maritime security, international trade, and regional stability.
The Attack: Key Facts
- Vessel Involved: The Cenk T is a Turkish-owned, Panama-flagged RoPax ferry operated by Cenk Shipping. Stena previously operated the vessel and was acquired by the Turkish company in 2021.
- Incident Details: The ship was struck by a Russian missile and/or drone shortly after docking at Chornomorsk port, causing a fire in the bow section. The attack was part of a broader Russian offensive targeting Ukrainian port infrastructure and energy facilities.
- Casualties and Response: One person, reportedly a dockworker, was injured. All crew members and truck drivers were safely evacuated, with no Turkish citizens among the casualties.
- Wider Impact: The attack damaged three Turkish-owned vessels in the region and left over 90,000 families without electricity due to overnight strikes on energy infrastructure.
Political and Diplomatic Reactions
- Turkey’s Response: The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed the safety of its citizens and called for an immediate halt to attacks on port and energy infrastructure. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan raised the issue directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging a limited ceasefire to protect maritime and energy assets.
- Ukraine’s Position: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, highlighting Russia’s disregard for diplomatic efforts and its intent to disrupt commercial activity and normal life in Ukraine.
- International Concerns: The incident has heightened fears about the safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea, with calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to ensure navigation safety and prevent further escalation.
Why This Incident Matters
1. Maritime Security in the Black Sea
The attack on the Cenk T underscores the increasing risks faced by commercial vessels operating in the Black Sea. With multiple Turkish-owned ships damaged in recent months, shipping companies and insurers are reassessing the safety of routes through this critical region.
2. Impact on Global Trade and Food Security
The Black Sea is a vital corridor for exporting Ukrainian grain and other food supplies. Disruptions to shipping not only threaten Ukraine’s economy but also have global repercussions, particularly for countries dependent on Ukrainian agricultural exports.
3. Diplomatic and Geopolitical Ramifications
Turkey’s involvement as both a NATO member and a country with close ties to Russia and Ukraine places it in a unique diplomatic position. The attack has prompted Ankara to intensify its calls for de-escalation and to advocate for the protection of civilian maritime traffic.
Conclusion
The fire aboard the Turkish-owned RoPax vessel Cenk T after a Russian attack on the Odesa region is a stark reminder of the dangers facing commercial shipping in conflict zones. As the international community closely watches, the incident may catalyse renewed diplomatic efforts to secure the Black Sea and protect vital trade routes.
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
