By Eric Huang      Photo：Robert So

Ukrainian officials recently revealed that several international ships have seemingly managed to evade Russian measures and cross the Black Sea to reach Ukraine's ports on the Danube River. This marks the first-time international ships have arrived in Ukraine since Russia terminated the grain export agreement and initiated the blockade of Ukrainian ports.

Reportedly, the Israeli-owned smaller general cargo ship AMS 1 was the first vessel to boldly defy Russian restrictions and cross the Black Sea. The 3,670 DWT Sierra Leone-registered ship departed from Ashdod, Israel, and arrived at Ukraine's Danube port of Izmail on July 31. There were no reports of any resistance encountered by the vessel, and observers noted the presence of US and NATO surveillance planes over the Black Sea, possibly monitoring the progress of the merchant ship.

Additionally, two other ships are reportedly among the first to head back to Ukraine. The Panama-registered Afer (5,000 DWT) left Haifa, with its AIS showing Sulina, Romania as its destination. Similarly, the Turkish-owned Vilmaz Kaptan (1,600 DWT), registered in Vanuatu, left the Georgian port of Poti and is now anchored, with Ukraine stating it is due to call in Izmail, although its AIS shows Galati, Romania as its destination.

These ships will be the first to arrive at the Danube port since Russia's attack on July 24. Ports of Remi and Izmail, situated near the Romanian border, were struck by missiles and drones, resulting in damage to port infrastructure and warehouses, with reports of minor damage to a Romanian-flagged ship. Romanian port officials allowed some ships in the area to move to the Romanian side of the riverbank.

Following the termination of the grain export agreement, Ukraine expressed its intent to explore alternative means to transport its products. Romania offered its ports to increase Ukraine's grain exports by the end of July. Furthermore, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, mentioned that Ukraine and Croatia had also "agreed on the possibility" of transporting Ukrainian produce via the Danube and Croatian ports. Ukraine has also considered using railways to transport grain to the west or possibly through Poland, but the addition of Danube ports represents another step toward expanding export volumes.

The successful arrival of international ships at Ukraine's Danube port highlights the resilience of global trade and the determination of all parties involved in seeking alternative solutions for Ukraine's grain exports. However, it also underscores the vulnerability of the Black Sea region and potential risks faced by commercial vessels.

Ukraine holds a crucial position in the global grain market, and the disruption of its exports has already led to a surge in grain prices worldwide. If the conflict persists or escalates further, certain regions could become more reliant on Ukraine's grain imports, potentially resulting in a food crisis.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict carries broader geopolitical implications. Involvement of international ships with flags from Israel, Turkey, and Greece raises concerns about how the crisis may entangle other countries and escalate into a larger international dispute.

The mining of Ukraine's port approaches and the classification of merchant ships as potential enemy combatants increase risks for international maritime navigation in the Black Sea. Shipowners and carriers may exercise greater caution in navigating through the Black Sea, potentially leading to supply chain disruptions.

The presence of US and NATO surveillance planes over the Black Sea indicates international monitoring of the situation. Observers' responses and actions may impact the development of the conflict and decisions made by relevant parties.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community must remain vigilant and actively seek ways to support stability and cooperation in the region. Sustainable peace and prosperity for Ukraine and the broader international community can only be achieved through persistent diplomatic efforts and dialogues.

Appreciate if you could share TGL Blog among your friends who are interested in first-hand market information of supply chain and updated economic incidents.