Ukraine has established temporary corridors for merchant ships from the ports of Odesa.

The routes will primarily be used to exit civilian vessels that have been in the Ukrainian ports of Chornomorsk, Odesa, and Pivdenny since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Russia, the command of the Ukrainian Navy said. Vessels whose owners/captains officially confirm their readiness to sail in conditions of military threat and mine danger will be allowed to pass through these routes.

It is reported that Ukraine proposed these routes in an appeal to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in July 2023. The IMO Council recognized Ukraine’s right to free commercial shipping guaranteed by international maritime law.

In July, the government also passed a resolution to create an additional guarantee mechanism for damages Russia may cause to charterers, operators, or ship owners. The document stipulates that if the insurer refuses to compensate the operator or ship owner for damage caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they can apply to the Ministry of Infrastructure for compensation within 90 days.