Ukraine's ports crippled by Russian strikes: 28 vessels hit, 21 killed.

Current state of Ukraine's port industry

According to ЦТС — Транспорт: In July 2023, Ukraine's port sector faced another wave of Russian shelling, damaging 28 civilian vessels. These attacks caused 21 deaths and left 34 people injured. The deadliest day was July 19, when 9 people lost their lives. Ukraine's Ministry of Infrastructure insists that ports remain operational, but shipowners are refusing to enter Ukrainian ports due to security concerns.

Sea port exports in July 2023 may reach up to 3 million tons, a 30% drop from June. In 2024, monthly seaport shipments averaged around 4.43 million tons. Forecasts for August 2023 suggest export volumes could halve again. The port industry faces severe strain, and freight rates are rising as risks from shelling escalate.

Impact of strikes on shipping

Between July 6 and 22, 2023, the Unmanned Systems Forces operation struck 196 vessels in the Black and Azov Seas. Some shipowners are opting for alternative routes. Kateryna Kononenko noted,

“Some refuse to enter seaports but choose the Danube instead.”

“Vessel calls are being canceled, and seafarers refuse to work on Ukrainian routes.”

The Turkish Shipowners' Association urged companies to reconsider voyages to Russian and Ukrainian ports. Oleksandr Nikulin emphasized that 'the current situation seems truly different from previous escalations.' The Ministry is in constant contact with port administrations, working to mitigate the impact of ongoing attacks and ensure safe navigation conditions.

As a result, Ukraine's port industry faces serious challenges amid the ongoing conflict. The situation is compounded by rising risks that lead shipowners to avoid port calls, which in turn affects export volumes. Given forecasts for the coming months, further declines in exports and potential shifts in shipping routes are expected, requiring active government measures to ensure safety and stability in the sector.