Ukraine Reportedly Strikes Vessels in Caspian Sea as Iran Raises Complaints to UN and EU

Ukraine reportedly carried out attacks on maritime targets in the Caspian Sea over the weekend, although details of the operation remain unconfirmed. According to reports, Iran raised formal complaints with both the United Nations and the European Union, describing the incident as a serious escalation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that vessels allegedly involved in transporting military cargo between Iran and Russia, along with a military vessel, were among the targets. Media reports said an Iranian cargo ship was struck on its bridge, resulting in the death of one sailor and significant damage to the vessel. The ship reportedly required assistance from maritime authorities in Astrakhan after the attack. Other reports suggested that the Russian cargo vessels Port Olya 2 and Begey, both previously sanctioned by Western governments, may also have been targeted, although official confirmation has not been provided.

Italian Coast Guard Evacuates More Than 700 as Wildfires Threaten Adriatic Coast

Italian authorities evacuated more than 700 people by sea after rapidly spreading wildfires threatened the coastal town of Peschici in the southern Puglia region. The operation involved residents and tourists who were moved from beaches and nearby coastal areas as flames advanced toward the shoreline. The evacuation was led by the Italian Coast Guard with support from the Guardia di Finanza and privately operated boats. Maritime assets were deployed after road access became increasingly difficult due to the approaching fire, allowing emergency responders to safely transport evacuees away from the affected area.

Bulgaria Denies Oil Leak Claims from Sanctioned Tanker Wreck

Bulgarian authorities have denied reports that a persistent oil slick in the Black Sea is originating from the wreck of the sanctioned crude oil tanker Kairos, which has remained anchored in Burgas Bay since it was sustained severe damage during a drone attack in November 2025. Officials said inspections have not found evidence of an active oil leak from the vessel. The concerns were first raised by the Nessebar Public Council, which urged the government to investigate reports of an apparent oil slick near the tanker. In response, Bulgaria's Transport Ministry and Maritime Administration conducted two inspections within a 1.5-nautical-mile radius of the vessel and also examined its hull for possible leaks.

India Confirms Attack on LPG Tanker in Iranian Waters; Crew Reported Safe

India has confirmed that a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker came under attack while navigating Iranian territorial waters. According to the Indian Embassy in Tehran, all 28 Indian crew members aboard the vessel are safe. The embassy said it is maintaining close communication with Iranian authorities and the ship's operator to monitor the situation. The incident reportedly occurred near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. While authorities acknowledged that the vessel was attacked, officials have not released detailed information regarding the type of attack or the extent of any damage sustained by the tanker. Following the incident, the Indian government said it is closely tracking developments and remains engaged with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and welfare of its nationals. The embassy also reiterated its readiness to provide assistance should further support be required.

Mariana Academy of Maritime Studies Inc., 2GO Strengthen Partnership Through Cadetship Program Initiative

Mariana Academy of Maritime Studies Inc. (MAMSI) and 2GO continue to strengthen their partnership through the development of a Cadetship Program aimed at providing aspiring Filipino seafarers with quality shipboard training and career opportunities. As part of this initiative, representatives from both organizations conducted an ocular visit aboard a 2GO vessel to further discuss and assess the proposed training program.

Intership Crew Philippines Launches INTERSHIPCares Reintegration Program for Filipino Seafarers

Intership Crew Philippines officially launched the INTERSHIPCares: The Seafarers’ Reintegration Program on July 25, 2026, at the Intership-IM Lounge, PITX Tower 4, Parañaque City. Carrying the theme “Beyond Voyage, A Horizon of Opportunities,” the initiative aims to help Filipino seafarers transition to sustainable shore-based livelihoods through entrepreneurship, agribusiness, and other income-generating opportunities after their careers at sea.