Ukrainian Navy/Armed Forces of Ukraine handout photo
MANILA — The Embassy of Ukraine extended its condolences to the families of two Filipinos killed in Russian drone attacks on commercial ships in the Black Sea as it stressed civilian ships should not be attacked.
In a statement, the embassy said it is "deeply saddened" by the reported deaths.
The two were killed in a series of attacks that have affected at least nine vessels and the 139 Filipino crew members on them, the Department of Migrant Workers said on Monday.
Two Filipino seafarers killed in Black Sea attack — DMW
The attacks, which were mostly on ships that were berthed or had just left port, also left 12 Filipino seafarers injured while one remains missing.
"We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, wish the injured a swift recovery, and hope that the missing seafarer will be found safely," the embassy said.
It said the attacks threaten civilian seafarers, international navigation and global food supply.
"Civilian commercial vessels and their crews must never be treated as military targets," the embassy also said.
It said Ukraine has informed the International Maritime Organization, international partners, and the home countries of affected crew members of the attacks.
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"Ukraine has also called for the deployment of an international monitoring mission in Ukrainian ports to document every act of Russian maritime terror and support efforts to hold those responsible accountable," the embassy said.
Russian forces invaded parts of Ukraine in February 2022 and the two countries have been at war since.