Uruguayan Livestock Ship Turned Away in Turkey Begins Return Voyage

Overview

• About 2,900 cattle are sailing back to Uruguay, with Uruguay’s agriculture ministry saying most are in good condition, though it cannot verify conditions onboard.
• The vessel was allowed a brief resupply at Bandırma before departing, and the return trip is expected to take roughly 32 days.
• Uruguay’s livestock services chief reported about 40 deaths during the trip, while a German animal‑welfare group cited at least 58 deaths and around 140 births.
• Turkish officials said some animals lacked ear tags or electronic chips and that 469 did not match the import lists submitted for 2,901 head.
• Images and witness accounts described a strong stench, swarms of flies, and bags reportedly holding carcasses, as Uruguay and Turkey pursue technical and diplomatic solutions.