Ukraine Strikes Deal with IMO to Shield Ports from Russian Strikes

Oleksii Kuleba’s Visit to London

According to Міністерство інфраструктури: During a working trip to London, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for Reconstruction, Oleksii Kuleba, held talks with Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization. The conversation centered on maritime safety, protecting Ukrainian port infrastructure, and coordinating global efforts to counter Russian attacks.

The two sides addressed the following points:

• ensuring safe navigation;
• defending Ukraine’s harbor facilities;
• fostering international collaboration.

Kuleba emphasized that, despite relentless shelling, Ukrainian ports continue to operate steadily within the framework of the Ukrainian Maritime Corridor.

“Ukraine remains a maritime nation and a guarantor of global food security. I am grateful to the International Maritime Organization and its Secretary-General personally for their unwavering support-together we will safeguard Ukrainian ports and the principles of free navigation,”

he added.

Technical Assistance Project ‘IMO for Ukraine’

A key focus of the meeting was the rollout of the ‘IMO for Ukraine’ technical assistance project. This initiative aims to support Ukraine in tackling the pressing challenges confronting its maritime sector.

The discussions highlighted the critical role of international backing for Ukraine amid ongoing armed conflict, where maritime security remains paramount. Collaboration with the International Maritime Organization could strengthen Ukraine’s global standing and ensure the stability of sea transport-vital to the nation’s economy. With persistent threats, such efforts will help Ukraine retain control over its ports and sustain international trade links.

As Ukraine continues to bolster its maritime safety, the recent launch of a new initiative in collaboration with the IMO highlights the ongoing commitment to secure shipping routes. This initiative not only aims to enhance safety measures but also underscores the significance of international cooperation in safeguarding vital trade links. To learn more about the implications of this initiative for Ukraine's maritime sector, read our detailed coverage on the new shipping safety initiative.