**
In a significant escalation of hostilities, Ukraine has launched strikes on five cargo vessels in the Sea of Azov, accusing them of involvement in the illicit transportation of Ukrainian grain and military supplies. This development coincides with heightened diplomatic efforts as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extends an offer for direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is preparing to address a major economic forum in St Petersburg.
Naval Strikes on Illicit Cargo Ships
Ukrainian military officials have reported successful strikes against vessels they claim are illegally operating within the Sea of Azov and along coastal areas currently under Russian control. Robert Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s drone forces, stated that the targeted ships were engaged in “stealing” Ukrainian grain while also transferring military cargo and fuel. Among the vessels attacked were cargo ships and tankers that had obscured their identities by painting over their names and disabling radar systems, ostensibly to avoid detection.
The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry confirmed the deaths of five of its citizens