Russia / Ukraine - Conflict Escalation

Yesterday evening (23 February 2022), Ukraine’s parliament voted in favour of a national state of emergency after Russia recognised two breakaway regions as independent (in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions). Earlier this morning, Russia has launched a new military operation in the Donetsk region and along the borders of Ukraine. Martial law has been imposed throughout the country for 30 days.  

All this uncertainty will naturally have an impact on port operations in the region.  In this regard, the club is receiving multiple, and at times conflicting, reports.

We have been advised by our local correspondents in the region that Berdyansk port has stopped all cargo operations and all seafarers are to stay on board their ships. We have been advised the same is true at the port of Mariupol and the Harbour Master has ordered all vessels to hold ready for departure. 

There is no official information yet on the closure at the ports of Pivdenny, Nikolaev, Dneprobugsky –  but these ports may also soon be closed, if not already. 

As to the passage through Kerch Strait down to the Black Sea, at the moment we understand those vessels already awaiting transit at the North part of strait (Sea of Azov) can proceed once weather permits.

However, the situation locally is very tense and capable of change at any time. 

Categories: Maritime Security, Supply/Support, Ukraine / Russia