Ukraine Tightens Port Security as Authorities Monitor Sunken Bulker Near Odesa

Ukrainian authorities have increased security measures around the Port of Odesa while continuing to monitor the bulk carrier Golden Leo, which sank in the Black Sea after sustaining damage during a reported attack. Officials said the vessel is under close observation as response teams assess the situation and any potential risks to the surrounding area. According to the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority, environmental monitoring is underway to detect any possible fuel or cargo leakage from the wreck. Specialists are conducting regular inspections and water quality assessments to determine whether the sinking has caused pollution or could affect nearby marine ecosystems. The Golden Leo was reportedly carrying a cargo of corn when it was damaged while sailing through a Ukrainian maritime corridor. Authorities said the vessel later sank, prompting an expanded response involving port officials, environmental experts, and maritime safety agencies. Investigations into the incident and the condition of the wreck remain ongoing.

Fire on Norwegian Chemical Tanker Extinguished; All Crew Safe

A fire aboard the Norwegian chemical tanker Bergstraum was successfully extinguished on July 28 after an apparent explosion while the vessel was at anchor outside Fredrikstad, Norway. According to ship manager Utkilen AS, all 15 crew members were accounted for, with no injuries reported and no signs of pollution or cargo release. The incident prompted a large emergency response after reports of an explosion and fire near Skjærhalden. Rescue teams from Norway quickly arrived at the scene, joined by firefighters, police boats, the Norwegian Coast Guard, Swedish rescue boats, and a rescue helicopter. Firefighters were safely brought onboard to help control the situation.

Houthis Claim Fourth Attack on Saudi-Linked Tanker as Red Sea Tensions Escalate

Yemen's Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for another attack on a Saudi-linked oil tanker in the Red Sea, marking what the group described as its fourth strike since announcing a maritime blockade targeting vessels connected to Saudi ports. The latest claim comes as security concerns continue to affect one of the world's busiest shipping routes. According to Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree, the tanker NCC Ghazal was allegedly targeted with ballistic missiles after the vessel was accused of violating the group's declared blockade. The Houthis said the attack forced the tanker to change course and retreat. As of publication, independent authorities had not verified the group's account of the incident.

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.

Batch Maraliyag Marks Milestone at AIMS 55th Commencement Exercises and Recognition Day

The Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) successfully held its 55th Commencement Exercises and Recognition Day, celebrating the achievements of Batch Maraliyag as they reached another important milestone in their maritime education. The event honoured the dedication, perseverance, and hard work of the students as they prepare for careers in the maritime industry.

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.