INTERCARGO was deeply saddened and concerned to hear of the reported appalling missile attack on the 91,900dwt bulk carrier KMAX Ruler in the port of Odesa, which led to the death of a pilot and injury to four crew members onboard.
It is a stark reminder of the fragility of maritime safety and security and this act of aggression, capable of inflicting loss of innocent lives, must be vehemently condemned.
Bulk carriers, manned by innocent seafarers, represent the epitome of non-combatant vessels, and any assault on them is both reprehensible and inexcusable. It is imperative to underscore that merchant vessels, unrelated to the ongoing conflict, should not become pawns in any hostile engagement and it was fortunate this attack did not claim more lives.
In light of this tragic incident, it is crucial for all nations in the Black Sea region to unite in ensuring the safety and security of our seafarers, who play an integral role in global trade and prosperity.
INTERCARGO's thoughts and condolences go out to the families of the seafarers affected in this tragic incident. Our Association will continue to monitor the situation in the area very closely.
About INTERCARGO: International shipping is vital for the global economy and prosperity as it transports approximately 90% of world trade. The dry bulk sector is the largest shipping sector in terms of number of ships and deadweight. Dry bulk carriers account for 43% of the world fleet (in tonnage) and carry an estimated 55% of the global transport work. Please view our latest Dry Bulk Shipping video: Sustainably serving the world’s essential needs.
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) unites and promotes quality dry bulk shipping, bringing together 250 forward thinking companies from 30 countries. INTERCARGO convened for the first time in 1980 in London and has been participating with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993. INTERCARGO provides the forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and operators are informed about, discuss, and share concerns on key topics and regulatory challenges, especially in relation to safety, the environment, and operational excellence. The Association takes forward its members’ positions to IMO, as well as to other shipping and international industry fora, having free and fair competition as a principle.