A Russian strike on a vessel in the Black Sea resulted in the death of its captain and injuries to three other crew members, according to Ukraine's Ministry for Restoration, Infrastructure, and Transport. The vessel, flying the flag of Tanzania, was reportedly en route to a Ukrainian port. Details regarding the vessel's condition are being clarified.

Russia's Ministry of Defense stated on September 17 that its forces attacked a dry cargo ship in the Black Sea, 11 kilometers from Odessa, which it claimed was carrying cargo for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Ukrainian ministry stated that Russia systematically attacks Ukrainian ports, port infrastructure, and civilian merchant vessels, posing a threat to people and international shipping in the Black Sea, and called for international action to protect civilian shipping.