A Greek flagged and owned tanker was struck by a missile off the Russian port of Novorossiysk in the Black Sea, authorities said on Saturday, though all 24 crew members on board were reported safe.

The vessel was sailing about 14 nautical miles from the port when it was hit, sustaining material damage to its starboard side.

The tanker belongs to the shipping company Maran Gas Maritime, part of the shipping group controlled by Maria Angelicoussi.

According to initial information, the ship was not carrying cargo at the time of the incident and remained operational after the strike.

The vessel continued sailing and did not require assistance or towing.

There are 24 sailors on board including ten Greeks, thirteen Filipinos and one Romanian.

All crew members are reported to be in good health and the situation on the ship is described as under control.

The circumstances surrounding the strike remain under investigation as tensions and security risks for shipping persist in the wider Black Sea region.

Greek shipping minister Vasilis Kikilias said the incident had raised serious concern in Athens, linking the attack to recent decisions regarding the partial release of Russian oil.

“We will protest strongly at the level of the European Council and wherever necessary for this unacceptable and very dangerous targeting of Greek ships,” he said, adding that maritime transport should remain outside geopolitical conflicts.

“Without global shipping there can be no trade.”

He also said that no Greek seafarer serving in the area had requested repatriation.