Azerbaijani sailors killed in drone attack in Sea of Azov

Azerbaijani citizens have been killed in a drone attack on foreign cargo vessels in the Sea of Azov. Among the victims are Captain Fuad Orujov and Chief Engineer Gismat Aliyev.

According to available information, the strike targeted vessels sailing under foreign flags. One of them was reportedly operating under the flag of Palau. The ships were en route from Türkiye to Rostov-on-Don to load grain.

Aykhan Hajizada, spokesperson for Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry, said that two foreign cargo vessels carrying a total of 25 Azerbaijani citizens were attacked overnight. He emphasized that the ships did not belong to the Azerbaijani state.

According to information received from the Russian side, five Azerbaijani citizens were killed and three others were injured in the attack. The wounded were taken to a hospital in the city of Yeysk. Their condition is assessed as stable, and they are currently receiving treatment in the surgical and trauma departments of the Yeysk Central City Hospital.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry is coordinating the issue with relevant state agencies, the country’s diplomatic missions, and competent authorities of the respective states. Several employees of Azerbaijan’s embassy in Russia have traveled to the scene.

The ministry also said that matters related to the condition of Azerbaijani citizens, their return to the homeland, and the provision of necessary consular assistance are under control.

The attack took place on the night of June 5 in the Taganrog Bay of the Sea of Azov. According to Russian media reports, drones struck the vessels Natra and Tsirkon. Several drones reportedly hit each ship, causing serious damage to the hulls and superstructures and triggering local fires on board.

Russian media claim that the attack was carried out by Ukraine. Kyiv has not yet commented on these reports.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry expressed deep condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.