Turkey restricts Black Sea ship traffic amid escalating attacks

Turkey has tightened restrictions on commercial ship passage through the Black Sea, citing growing concerns over intensified attacks by Russia and Ukraine. The Turkish Directorate General of Maritime Affairs has reportedly begun delaying or denying transit permits for ships bound for Novorossiisk, Russia's primary port for oil and grain exports.

Sources indicate that some vessels were also informed that the restrictions apply to those heading toward Ukraine. While authorities have not provided an official explanation, the delays effectively limit the flow of ships entering the Black Sea. This action comes amid a surge in attacks on commercial vessels in the region, with several ships owned by Turkish companies reportedly targeted.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry has called for immediate concrete measures to ensure navigation safety, warning that escalating conflict could have significant negative consequences, including on global food security. The recent disruptions risk further complicating international trade, which is already affected by ongoing conflicts and supply chain issues.

Ships bound for ports in Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia, and Turkey, however, appear to be unaffected and continue to navigate through the Dardanelles Strait. The situation highlights the delicate balance Turkey is trying to maintain amidst the ongoing conflict, as it seeks to ensure its own maritime security and the stability of global trade routes.

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We reiterate our call to all relevant actors, especially the warring parties, to urgently implement concrete measures to ensure navigation safety in the Black Sea.