IMO Secretary-General condemns Russian attack on Odesa port

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has condemned the Russian attack on the port of Odesa, which killed seafarers.

Arsenio Dominguez, the IMO Secretary-General, has appealed to all parties involved to “work together.”

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of seafarers in the recent attack in Odesa, which claimed the lives of four seafarers. My thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as those who were injured,” Dominguez said.

He recalled that seafarers provide a continuous flow of essential goods that sustain communities around the world.

“They must never be targeted in conflicts beyond their control. We must reaffirm our shared commitment to their safety and well-being,” the IMO Secretary-General said.

Arsenio Dominguez called on the parties involved to work together to ensure that such acts of violence against innocent seafarers and shipping do not continue.

He added: “International shipping must never be a victim in the broader geopolitical landscape. IMO continues to support efforts to improve the safety of all those working in the global maritime industry.”

As a reminder, on the evening of Tuesday, March 11, the Russian military launched a missile strike on the Odesa seaport.

According to preliminary information, four crew members of the “MJ Pinar” vessel were killed, another sailor was injured. An employee of the watchkeeping company who was on board was also injured.