The security of Ukrainian ports today is not only a matter of Ukraine’s economy,” - Oleksii Kuleba, Minister for Communities and Territories Development
Despite constant russian strikes on port, energy, and railway infrastructure, Ukraine continues to ensure the operation of maritime exports and to fulfill its role in the global food security system.
This was emphasized by Oleksii Kuleba, Vice Prime Minister for the Restoration of Ukraine and Minister for Communities and Territories Development, during a meeting with the SE «Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority» in Odesa region.
The Ukrainian Maritime Corridor operates under conditions of constant military threat. Since the start of its operation, more than 162 million tonnes of cargo have been handled, including over 98 million tonnes of grain. Nearly 7,000 vessels have passed through the corridor.
“The security of Ukrainian ports today is not only an economic issue for Ukraine – it is a matter of global food security. Despite constant shelling and threats, we maintain the operation of the maritime corridor because we understand our responsibility to countries that depend on Ukrainian grain. Supplies of Ukrainian grain, oil, corn, and barley reach 55 countries worldwide. For many of them, especially in North Africa, this route is the only economically viable delivery option. Our task is to protect infrastructure and people and to ensure uninterrupted supplies even in wartime”, - Oleksii Kuleba emphasized.
Work to strengthen the security of seaports continues daily. The SE «Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority» (SE «USPA»), in close cooperation with the military, law enforcement agencies, and business, is implementing additional measures to protect infrastructure and ensure the safe passage of vessels.
The safety of port workers also remains a key priority. The installation of protective shelters is ongoing, enhancing the safety of port personnel during enemy attacks.
Special attention is being paid to energy resilience. Backup power sources are being introduced, cogeneration units are being installed, and critical infrastructure is being modernized. Ports are adapting to operate under energy constraints and combined attacks – all to ensure the continuity of export operations.
The Vice Prime Minister expressed gratitude to everyone involved in maintaining the operation of the maritime corridor – port workers who load and dispatch vessels daily, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, particularly the Naval Forces, the defenders of Zmiinyі Island, and all those responsible for navigational safety and infrastructure protection.
