Istanbul – 06/05/2026: On June 5, 2026, the Turkish fishing boat DURU 67 was attacked and sunk in the Black Sea west of the Crimean Peninsula annexed by Russia. One fisherman died in the attack and four others were injured. The Turkish Coast Guard immediately launched rescue operations. A nearby fishing boat, the BURAK KAYA, took on the injured and brought them to the port of Inebolu. Despite medical care, a severely injured crew member died during transfer. The Turkish authorities have initiated an investigation to identify those responsible.
The region around Crimea has been a source of constant tension since its annexation by Russia in 2014. In recent months, attacks on ships in the Black Sea have increased, including drone attacks on Turkish and international ships. The Turkish government has expressed concern about the escalation of incidents and has warned of the risk of further destabilization of maritime routes of great strategic importance.
The exact circumstances of the attack on DURU 67 are not yet clear. Investigators are assessing whether military actors or paramilitary groups are responsible for the attack. Turkey has emphasized that the safety of its fishing fleet is a priority. Ankara has also announced the strengthening of navigation protection in the Black Sea.
Internationally, states and organizations are watching developments with suspicion. Attacks on civilian vessels such as fishing boats endanger not only the lives of crews but also maritime security and regional stability. NATO and the European Union are closely monitoring the situation and calling for restraint and dialogue.
Further details from the ongoing investigations are expected in the coming days. The Turkish authorities intend to regularly inform the public about developments. Meanwhile, Turkey is intensifying diplomatic efforts to bring those responsible to justice and prevent future attacks.
The incident highlights the need for greater international cooperation to ensure the security of maritime routes in the Black Sea. Considering the complex geopolitical situation between Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, and other littoral states, responsible behavior from all parties involved is essential to avoid further escalation.
Navigation safety is of great importance for economic stability and peace in the region. Turkey calls not only for support for the investigations but also for a clear stance from the international community against aggressive behavior in the Black Sea.
In conclusion, the attack on the fishing boat DURU 67 demonstrates how fragile the situation in the Black Sea is. It remains an urgent task for all states bordering the Black Sea to work together to find solutions that prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of the neighboring waters.