Ukraine has claimed that a Russian drone struck a Chinese-owned cargo ship in the Black Sea on Monday night, just as Russian President Vladimir Putin was preparing for a visit to China. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media that during a Russian drone attack in the Odesa region, one unmanned aerial vehicle hit the Chinese vessel.

Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk stated that all crew members were Chinese nationals and none were injured. The ship, identified as the KSL De Yang, continued its voyage despite visible burn marks on its upper structure. Ukraine also reported that Russia launched 524 drones and 22 missiles overnight, including ballistic and cruise types.

China has long called for dialogue to end the war but has not condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion, presenting itself as a neutral mediator. The incident comes after Russia withdrew from a UN- and Turkey-brokered deal that had allowed Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea.