Kathmandu— Türkiye has summoned the Ukrainian ambassador to Ankara after two Turkish-operated vessels were struck in the Black Sea amid ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs communicated its strong concerns to Ambassador Naryman Dzhelialo on Saturday, emphasizing the need for safety of people, assets, navigation, and the environment in the region. The incidents have raised alarms about escalating risks to commercial shipping in a vital waterway as both Ukraine and Russia target each other’s export revenues.

Vessel Strikes and Turkish Response

The Turkish-operated container ship Lider Bordo Mavi was hit on Wednesday while off the coast of Tuapse, Russia. The following day, its sister vessel, Lider Kocatepe, was also targeted by a drone as it headed to provide assistance. According to Turkish media reports, the Lider Bordo Mavi has since been towed to the Turkish port of Samsun.

Growing Concerns for Maritime Safety

Türkiye has consistently called for an end to attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea, which have become increasingly frequent since Russia launched its war on Ukraine in February 2022. Several commercial Turkish ships have been targeted by drones believed to originate from Ukraine, with three crew members seriously injured earlier this month when the Nadezhda cargo ship was struck near Novorossiysk.

Türkiye’s Balancing Act

Maintaining relations with both Moscow and Kyiv, Türkiye has positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict. Despite not applying Western sanctions on Russia, Ankara has also provided defense equipment to Ukraine and recently ratified a free trade agreement between the two countries. However, the safety of commercial vessels transiting the Black Sea remains a critical issue for Türkiye due to its regular reliance on the waterway.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan earlier this month urged an end to all attacks in the Black Sea, stating that they were occurring “without distinction.”

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.