Russian Cargo Ship Struck by Drones in Mediterranean
The Russian Ro-Ro cargo ship Lady Maria, IMO 9220641, was struck by multiple drones while sailing from Oran, Algeria, to the eastern Mediterranean. Footage circulating online shows a series of strikes on the vessel, with claims of up to 12 attacks.
Sanctions and Connections to Russia
The Lady Maria is currently under sanctions from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) due to its connection to Russian company MG-FLOT LLC (formerly TransMorFlot LLC). Additionally, Ukraine imposed sanctions on the ship on May 23, 2026. The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Agency (DIU) claims that the Lady Maria is involved in transporting military cargo and weapons for Russia.
Drone Activity in the Mediterranean
While there are no confirmed reports of the drone’s origin, this incident is not unprecedented. In May 2026, a Ukrainian naval drone was detected off the coast of Greece. In December 2025, Ukraine’s Security Service reported its first-ever detection of a Russian-flagged tanker ship in neutral waters of the Mediterranean.
Background and Context
The Lady Maria departed from Oran, Algeria, and was headed towards an unknown destination when it was struck by the drones. The vessel’s route shows that it passed close to the Greek island of Crete before continuing on its journey to Syria.
International Reactions
The incident has sparked international concern, with both the US and Ukraine imposing sanctions on the ship. The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Agency (DIU) has stated that the Lady Maria is involved in transporting military cargo and weapons for Russia.
Vessels Mentioned
- LADY MARIIA (IMO: 9220641)
Original Article: «Lady Maria»: Επίθεση με drones σε ρωσικό πλοίο στη Μεσόγειο – Πληροφορίες ότι μετέφερε όπλα — Onalert (Greek) | View English Translation