Black Sea Shipping Under Fire: Russia struck a Guinea-Bissau-flagged wheat carrier, the Mera Queen, in the Odesa region, killing one sailor and injuring three; Ukraine says the attacks are systematic and threaten global food security. More Drone Strikes on Trade: A separate report says a German-owned bulk carrier, Emil, was hit repeatedly off Odesa, with damage severe enough to disable key systems during evacuation. Ukraine Seeks EU Support: Ukraine asked the European Commission for €220 million in non-repayable aid to subsidize interest for small and medium farmers hit by port and corridor disruptions. ECOWAS Transition Help: Senegal has started as ECOWAS facilitator for Guinea-Bissau’s political transition, meeting President Horta Inta-A and Prime Minister Ilidio Vieira Te ahead of a constitutional referendum on Aug. 30 and elections on Dec. 6. Visa Bond Update: The U.S. made a permanent visa bond programme for 30 African countries, including Guinea-Bissau, with refundable deposits up to $20,000 for some B-1/B-2 applicants. Football Draws: Guinea-Bissau’s UDIB will face Nigeria’s El Kanemi Warriors in the CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round.