GN Group Corporation has confirmed that the Panama-flagged M/V LADY ZEHMA (IMO No. 9303431) sustained damage following two reported attacks while transiting the Black Sea after departing Odesa, Ukraine, on 21 July 2026.
The vessel was reportedly targeted by a drone strike at approximately 08:30 GMT (11:30 local time), followed by a rocket attack at 11:30 GMT (14:30 local time). The impacts caused damage to one of the vessel’s cargo holds and its hatch cover, in addition to damage to adjacent deck structures caused by fragments from the explosions.
Emergency Response Activated
Following the incident, the vessel’s emergency response procedures were immediately activated. The Master and crew responded in accordance with the company’s Safety Management System, while GN Group Corporation’s Shore Emergency Response Team coordinated necessary actions with maritime authorities and relevant stakeholders.
After an initial onboard assessment, M/V LADY ZEHMA remained under its own propulsion and continued its voyage while maintaining continuous communication with the company’s emergency response team.
Crew Confirmed Safe
GN Group Corporation confirmed that all 22 crew members have been accounted for, with no injuries or fatalities reported. All personnel remain in good physical condition.
As a precautionary measure, the Owners and Insurers have agreed for an independent medical doctor to board the vessel to conduct medical examinations for all crew members.
The crew includes 19 Azerbaijani seafarers, one Turkish national, one Ukrainian national and one Egyptian national.
Vessel Condition Under Review
The company confirmed that the vessel remains operational, with its main propulsion, steering and navigation systems functioning normally. No pollution or environmental contamination has been reported.
Preliminary observations indicate that cargo stored within the affected cargo hold may have sustained damage. However, due to the condition of the damaged hatch cover, the cargo hold cannot yet be safely opened, preventing a full assessment of the cargo condition. A comprehensive inspection will be conducted once conditions allow.
GN Group Corporation said continuous technical assessments remain ongoing and that it has notified relevant maritime authorities and interested parties while continuing cooperation with all stakeholders.
The company also activated its Family Support Procedures immediately following the incident to ensure that verified information is communicated directly to the families of all crew members, confirming once again that all seafarers on board remain safe.
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