- Ukraine has requested the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to send a monitoring mission to its southern Odesa ports.
- Russian missile strikes have significantly impacted Ukrainian ports and foreign vessels.
- Ukraine has reported increased port insurance costs and canceled bookings.
Ukraine has officially appealed to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to deploy a monitoring mission to its ports in the southern Odesa region. This request comes after an escalation in Russian missile attacks targeting Ukraine’s southern port infrastructure, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced, reports Reuters.
Recent Russian Attacks on Civilian Vessels
Since October 6, Russian strikes have damaged four foreign-flagged civilian vessels operating in the region, underscoring the threat to both Ukrainian and international maritime operations.
The attacks have created a pressing need for international monitoring.
Threat to Global Food Security
“Amid increased Russian terror, Ukraine has officially appealed to the International Maritime Organization to immediately send an international monitoring mission,” said Sybiha.
Russian attacks on port infrastructure and grain storage facilities have directly threatened global food security, as Ukraine is a major grain exporter.
Ukraine’s Grain Export Decline
Ukraine was exporting approximately 6 million tons of grain per month via the Black Sea before Russia’s 2022 invasion.
85% of food exports are left via Black Sea ports. The recent Russian missile strikes have further hampered Ukraine’s ability to sustain global food supply chains.
Insurance Costs and Canceled Bookings Surge
The recent strikes have not only damaged ports but also led to higher insurance costs for shipping operations.
Some companies have canceled bookings altogether due to the heightened risk of operating in the area following Russian attacks.
Extent of Destruction in Ports
Ukraine reports that over the past three months, Russian forces have carried out almost 60 attacks on Ukrainian ports. It has caused severe damage to port infrastructure.
Nearly 300 facilities have been damaged or destroyed as a result, with serious implications for port operations.
Civilian Vessels at Risk
In addition to infrastructure damage, Ukraine has confirmed that 22 civilian vessels have been destroyed or severely damaged since the strikes began.
This creates both a humanitarian and economic crisis for maritime operations in the region.
International Concerns on Food Security
Sybiha emphasized that Russian aggression towards Ukrainian ports and grain storage facilities presents a global threat. These facilities are essential for exporting Ukrainian food products to international markets.
The ongoing attacks are exacerbating the global food crisis, particularly affecting countries that rely on Ukrainian grain exports.
Calls for Immediate Action
Ukraine’s appeal to the IMO is part of its broader efforts to address the damage caused by Russia’s continued attacks.
The international community is urged to respond quickly to protect global trade and food security.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Reuters
