Ukraine Launches New Maritime Security Strategy to Safeguard Economic Future

Ukraine, with its extensive 2,759.2 km coastline—the longest in the Azov-Black Sea region—has crafted its Maritime Security Strategy in direct response to the ongoing Russian aggression and the problems it has created.

The document’s title might be misleading—it’s not just about coastal defense. The strategy encompasses a wide range of issues, including demining, exploring the economic potential of the continental shelf, agricultural export logistics, environmental safety, and more. It extends beyond the Azov and Black Seas, considering Ukraine’s rivers and the potential for involvement in other global waterways that support its strategic interests.

National security

The new strategy is focused on regaining access to Ukraine’s territorial waters. Russia’s illegal invasion, which began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea and expanded in February 2022 to include the capture of coastal areas along the Azov and Black Seas, has made this a critical priority.

Ukraine’s immediate goal is to restore control over its coastline and ensure that the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov, and the Kerch Strait are safe for navigation. A key objective is demining the Black Sea, where the Russian Black Sea Fleet has placed naval mines.

In the long term, the strategy aims to strengthen defense capabilities to repel potential enemy attacks and deter future aggression. This includes investments in the navy, military training, and the development of military infrastructure. Ukraine plans to invest its own funds while also seeking support and investment from international partners. Ukraine is also interested in collaborating with other Black Sea basin countries on this issue—excluding Russia.

Economic dimension

A significant portion of the document focuses on economic aspects. Ukraine's rivers and two seas are crucial components of the country's export potential. Access to and safe use of these waterways are essential for enhancing this potential and ensuring energy security.

For example, Russia destroyed the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant in June 2023. Rebuilding it could cost over $1 billion and take 6-7 years. This act not only disrupted a key logistical route along the Dnipro River but also deprived Ukraine of access to the power plant. The disappearance of the Kakhovka Reservoir has created significant challenges for the agricultural sector, as the loss of water resources has affected irrigation in the region.

Ukraine’s continental shelf holds considerable economic interest, with projected resources estimated at 2.3 billion tons, representing about 40% of Ukraine’s total oil and gas reserves. Within Ukraine’s maritime economic zone, natural gas resources are projected at 1,751 billion cubic meters, with 48 billion cubic meters of proven reserves. Access to these resources will allow Ukraine to work towards energy independence.

Logistics and food security are also critical issues. Ukraine is among the top 10 grain-exporting countries, with its products reaching Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Safe export routes are essential for maintaining stability in many regions of the world, making this not only a national concern but also an issue that requires coordination with international partners.

Rule of law

Equally important is the commitment to upholding international law. The Maritime Security Strategy is being developed in full compliance with international maritime law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international treaties and agreements.

This commitment also extends to Ukraine’s responsibilities in all legal matters, with a particular focus on preventing:

• Terrorism

• Illegal migration and human trafficking

• Smuggling

• Illegal fishing

• Drug trafficking

• Piracy

• Arms trafficking

Ukraine further calls for adherence to environmental laws and is ready to collaborate with partners from the Black Sea basin and other countries, learning from the experiences of nations worldwide.

A new approach for Ukraine

Before this document, Ukraine had its own maritime doctrine, but it was far less comprehensive. The new strategy integrates three key vectors: security, economy, and law. Its implementation will require the coordinated effort of nearly all government ministries, local and international businesses, and representatives from other nations. This is a nationwide project with significant international implications, marking a first for Ukraine.

Experts also highlight another significant aspect: the Maritime Security Strategy not only sets clear goals but also includes detailed assessments of the steps already taken. Essentially, it serves as a practical tool that calls for immediate action, with well-defined objectives and methods for measuring progress.

Benefits for other countries

One of the most ambitious aspects of Ukraine’s strategy is its defense component. Ukraine has already managed to neutralize the power of Russia’s formidable Black Sea Fleet, despite having only a fraction of the enemy’s capabilities. Russian warships are now either anchored in bays or have left Crimean waters altogether; dozens of vessels, including the flagship, have been sunk or damaged. Even a submarine was destroyed. Russian ships can no longer operate freely in the Black Sea. 

With the support of international partners, Ukraine has also succeeded in restoring export levels from its Black Sea ports—a feat that seemed impossible in 2022.