Cargo handling at the ports of Greater Odessa has fallen 15-fold

Cargo handling at the ports of Greater Odesa has dropped by more than 15 times since July 22. This was caused by systematic Russian attacks on port infrastructure and civilian shipping.

This was reported by Mykola Kalashnyk, Minister of Recovery, Infrastructure, and Transport, following a meeting in Odesa on the operation of the maritime corridor, logistics, and shipping safety.

According to him, since the start of the full-scale invasion, Russian attacks have damaged or partially destroyed 1,173 port infrastructure facilities and 274 civilian vessels.

Ports, berths, vessels, anchorages, and entry routes have all come under attack. As a result, problems arise not only directly with port operations but also with the logistics of Ukrainian exports.

Kalashnik described the decline in cargo handling as a direct blow to Ukrainian exports, the economy, and the food security of other countries.

During the meeting, participants also discussed how to ensure the continued operation of ports amid Russian attacks. Topics included the protection of people, vessels, and infrastructure; financial conditions for operations; insurance; compensation for losses; and logistics costs.

Alternative routes for cargo were considered separately, primarily via rail and the Danube ports.

“Business must continue to operate even amid the current level of threats. The state’s task is to create the conditions for this,” the minister noted.

According to him, during the meeting, they identified specific problems that are currently hindering the port sector’s operations, as well as the decisions that need to be made.

Андрій Колісніченко