On Sunday, July 19th, 2026, Ukraine accused Russia of launching missile strikes on the Turkish-owned cargo ship Golden Leo, resulting in the deaths of six crew members and leaving four others missing. The Golden Leo, which flies the flag of Guinea-Bissau, was carrying grain and was struck near the Ukrainian port city of Odesa as it was leaving the combat zone.

Ukraine’s navy reported that Russia launched three cruise missiles at the vessel. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga stated that the crew included citizens from Syria and India. Kyiv’s transport minister, Mykola Kalashnyk, confirmed the casualties on Telegram, noting six confirmed dead and four missing. Sybiga also reported via a statement on X that a Ukrainian maritime pilot was killed in the attack.

The incident occurred hours after Moscow fired a fresh barrage of missiles at Kyiv. Prime Minister Sergiy Koretsky condemned the attack, highlighting that it took place while the world was still responding to Russia’s overnight assault on Kyiv.

Sources