Russia said on Monday it is strengthening protection for vessels in the
Azov–Black Sea region and developing alternative cargo routes following a recent
escalation in maritime attacks between Russia and Ukraine. The transport
ministry said hostile drone strikes on ships had heightened tensions in the Sea
of Azov, prompting formation of a special task force to map new transport routes
and divert some cargo to other modes. Several terminal operators have told
authorities they can accept additional volumes within their operational capacity
and accelerate cargo handling and shipment. The ministry said it will coordinate
additional measures with the defense ministry to secure navigation and protect
merchant vessels in the Azov–Black Sea area. Russia is the world’s largest wheat
exporter; Ukraine is also a major agricultural exporter.
