Ukraine says it struck five cargo ships in the Sea of Azov and coastal waters of Russian-occupied territories, accusing the vessels of stealing Ukrainian grain and transporting military cargo. The Ukrainian drone forces commander, Robert Brovdi, said the ships had their names painted over and radars turned off. The strikes come as Vladimir Putin prepares to address a major economic forum in St. Petersburg, and after President Zelensky proposed direct talks with the Russian leader to end the war.
In a separate development, Ukraine confirmed one of its naval drones exploded off Romania's coast near the port of Constanta on Friday. No injuries were reported. Romanian officials said the drone self-detonated near an oil terminal, causing damage to a ship and warehouses. Ukraine stated the drone was knocked off course by Russian electronic interference.
Meanwhile, Russia continued its aerial campaign. At least 13 people were killed and more than 70 injured across Ukraine in the past day, including four in a drone strike on a dairy factory outside Kyiv. The U.S., EU, and France have backed Zelensky’s call for a face-to-face meeting with Putin. President Trump urged both leaders to meet, saying, “I want them each to make certain compromises.”
In St. Petersburg, Putin said he was “prepared to reach an agreement” but repeated that Zelensky’s legitimacy is in question due to the absence of elections under martial law. Ceasefire negotiations remain stalled.