27.08.2026 17:11
Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, increasing drone attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea are heightening security concerns in maritime transport. Some cargo ships navigating sea routes directly affected by the war are waiting off the coast of Trabzon due to security risks.
The war between Russia and Ukraine, now in its third year, continues to seriously affect maritime trade in the Black Sea. In particular, recent drone attacks by both Russia and Ukraine extending to commercial vessels have increased the security risk for cargo ships using the Black Sea route. Due to attacks in the eastern and northern parts of the Black Sea, it is reported that some commercial vessels have changed their sailing plans, while others have preferred to wait in safer areas. In this context, cargo ships registered under different flags are seen waiting off the coast of Trabzon.
"EXPORTS HAVE COME TO A STANDSTILL" Commenting on the issue, Erkut Çelebi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Trabzon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TTSO), stated that ships belonging to companies engaged in export and import have been targeted by drone attacks, saying, "Due to the recent tensions in Ukraine and Russia, most of our companies engaged in export and import are being subjected to drone attacks. Unfortunately, many of these are our members trading in the Black Sea. Although some export from Samsun, companies registered with our chamber in Trabzon have suffered significant damage. Exports have now come to a standstill. Steps have begun to be taken regarding this. Efforts are being made to soften the environment and reopen exports as soon as possible. Many of our companies have suffered great losses, and we are aware of this. Because vegetables and citrus products waiting at ports are currently spoiling. Our companies are in a difficult situation due to credit usage, debts for products purchased from orchards, and insurance debts. We have requested support for a deferral regarding these debts."
"EVERYONE IS WAITING AT PORTS FOR SECURITY" Selçuk İskender, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eastern Black Sea Exporters' Association (DKİB), noted that the attacks between Russia and Ukraine are harming the region's exports, stating, "In recent days, drone attacks have been carried out against ships engaged in Turkish commercial shipping in the Black Sea. These attacks are damaging our region's exports. Our colleagues exporting fresh fruits and vegetables are thus in a difficult situation. They must deliver the fresh produce they load against time. Due to an attack in the region, everyone is waiting at ports for security. The fate of the product waiting at the port tomorrow is uncertain. In this case, our exporters suffer losses. Plans and programs are disrupted. It creates enormous financial burdens. Our state is making the necessary initiatives on this matter. A solution needs to be produced in a short time. Fresh fruits and vegetables cannot wait. These should be considered force majeure, and tolerance should be shown in payments to the state. We request that certain periods or installments be arranged. If we do this, we protect our exporters and prevent potential future losses in markets. Because this war will not continue like this. When the Ukraine-Russia war ends, we will sell goods to these markets again. A large part of our exports are made to Russia and Ukraine."