Bulk carriers Anna S and Elina B targeted in Black Sea missile attacks

A major maritime security incident occurred in Black Sea on 17 August involving attacks on bulk carriers Anna S and Elina B. All the crew members of both vessels were reported safe.

Vessel ANNA S, image credit: Vladislav Tagunkov

According to Greek news media, the Liberian-flagged Anna S was hit by a missile approximately 20 nautical miles off the Russian port of Novorossiysk, to load grains. The vessel sustained damage, and a fire broke out following the explosion.

All 21 crewmembers, including 20 Filipinos and one Romanian captain, abandoned the vessel Anna S and were rescued by the Malta-flagged bulk carrier Elina B, which was operating in the region.

Approximately five hours later, Elina B was also targeted in a missile attack. Despite being struck, the vessel remained operational and continued sailing toward Turkey, carrying its own crew along with the 21 rescued seafarers from Anna S.

Anna S, built in 2001, is a bulk carrier owned by Greek shipping company Neptune Tradebulk. The vessel sustained significant damage in the attack and it remains unclear whether the vessel still afloat or has begun to sink.