Russian-Bound Ships Face Dardanelles Restrictions as Turkey Tightens Passage

Shipping Curbs for Russian Ports

According to ХВИЛЯ: Turkey’s General Directorate of Coastal Safety has begun limiting transit for vessels that are headed to Russian ports, with ships bound for Novorossiysk receiving delayed or refused permits to proceed through the Dardanelles. In contrast, traffic to ports in Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia, and Turkey continues through the straits without restrictions.

Why Turkey Moved to Restrict Traffic

The decision follows attacks on Turkish ships near Russian shores. In early August, a drone hit the living quarters of the Turkish-flagged vessel Gulluk. Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said that no merchant ships are being spared, including Turkish ones. Ankara is nonetheless bound by the Montreux Convention to allow free passage for commercial vessels through the straits even in wartime.

According to oil and gas market analyst Mykhailo Krutikhin, more than 20% of Russia’s oil exports used to move via the Black Sea. The new restrictions could therefore have a significant impact on shipping in the region and on Russia’s oil exports.

“Turkey itself was forced to admit that Ukrainian forces control the Azov and Black Seas, and it has limited passage for vessels going to Russian ports. Such ships are openly advised not to enter the Dardanelles and instead to travel by their own routes.” - Mykhailo Krutikhin

These measures highlight growing tension in the Black Sea and add fresh pressure on Russia’s oil-dependent economy. With the ongoing conflict and heightened maritime threats, rerouted supplies and higher costs for Russian exporters could eventually send ripples through global energy markets. The Dardanelles remain a crucial route for trade between the Black Sea and the wider world.

As tensions escalate in the region, the implications of Turkey's restrictions on Russian-bound vessels could lead to significant diplomatic repercussions. In a related development, Putin has warned that detaining Russian ships may provoke a reciprocal response, underscoring the delicate balance of maritime security and international relations amid the ongoing conflict.