Ukrainian Port Operator TIS Buys Out Arab Partner Over Ties to Rosatom.

TIS Regains Full Control of Its Assets

According to Novyny.live: The Ukrainian port operator TIS has reclaimed complete ownership of its facilities in the Odesa region by purchasing the stake held by the Arab corporation DP World. This move was triggered by DP World's ongoing collaboration with the Russian state-owned company Rosatom, which posed a serious risk of triggering Western sanctions. TIS successfully restored 100% control over its assets in 2026, a critical step for ensuring the port's stable operations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

DP World, which acquired a 51% stake in a container terminal back in 2020, continued its business activities in Russia even after the full-scale invasion began. As a result, the company was added to the list of international sponsors of war compiled by Ukraine's National Agency for Corruption Prevention (NAZK). According to Forbes, buying back the stake may have cost TIS around $100 million. Serhiy Naumovych, a company representative, stated that

“partnering with such an entity could have led to sanctions, frozen accounts, and a complete shutdown of port operations in the Odesa region.”

Why Port Asset Control Matters

This year alone, Russian forces have struck port infrastructure in the Odesa region 180 times, underscoring how vital it is to maintain secure control over these assets for both regional safety and economic stability. TIS's recovery of its assets represents a significant step in countering growing Russian threats and safeguarding Ukraine's maritime gateways.

This development reflects Ukraine's broader determination to retain authority over strategically important resources amid wartime challenges. By regaining full control, TIS not only improves security conditions but also strengthens the economic resilience of the region—a crucial advantage given the persistent danger from the aggressor. This case may also serve as a model for other Ukrainian companies seeking to protect their interests under the current circumstances.