It’s not just about Ukraine, it’s about the security of world trade: Oleksii Kuleba at the IMO session

Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine – Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba spoke at the 137th session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

In his address, he emphasized that russia is systematically and purposefully attacking civilian shipping, port infrastructure and search and rescue services of Ukraine. This creates direct threats to international trade, the safety of seafarers and freedom of navigation.

According to Oleksii Kuleba, in 2026 alone, more than 70 attacks on merchant ships were recorded.

“Calling things by their right names is not a matter of rhetoric, but a matter of security. When we talk about these incidents, it is important to clearly state that these are not ‘threats in the Black Sea’ and not ‘incidents on sea routes’. This is an act of aggression and the aggressor is the russian federation,” stressed Oleksii Kuleba.

The Deputy Prime Minister devoted a separate block of his speech to the so-called “shadow fleet” of russia, whose activities pose a serious threat to the safety of navigation, human life at sea and the environment. Ukraine, together with international partners, consistently raises this issue, calling on states, shipowners, operators and insurers to refrain from any activity that may contribute to the circumvention of sanctions and the financing of the aggressor’s war machine.

Ukraine also once again emphasized that all seaports in the temporarily occupied territories remain officially closed in accordance with Ukrainian legislation and international maritime law. These principles are also reflected in the IMO GISIS global information system. Any vessel calls to these ports are illegal.

“Ukraine does not ask for special treatment. We ask only one thing – that the norms of international maritime law be implemented equally for everyone. Every unpunished attack on a merchant ship or rescue service undermines international law and sets a dangerous precedent for the whole world,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

In conclusion, Oleksii Kuleba noted that despite the ongoing aggression, Ukraine continues to ensure the operation of its maritime corridor and fulfill its international obligations. He thanked the IMO Secretary-General, member states and international partners for their solidarity and unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing that this is not only about Ukraine’s security, but also about the future of freedom of navigation and the security of global trade.

Ukraine’s statement was supported by the delegations of Cyprus (on behalf of the EU Member States), the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, Ireland, Poland, Sweden and the European Commission. Ukraine highly appreciates the continued support and solidarity of international partners.