MSC suspends Novorossiysk service after attack on container ship

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, the world’s largest container shipping line, has suspended new cargo bookings to and from Russia’s Novorossiysk port. The decision took effect immediately after one of the company’s vessels was attacked by a drone.

The incident involved the container ship MSC ULSAN III, which was attacked while heading to Novorossiysk. MSC did not specify when the incident occurred but informed customers that its regular weekly service through the port has been suspended.

The company is monitoring the situation and is advising customers to consider alternative logistics options for imports and exports until the service can resume. MSC continues to operate through other Russian ports, including St. Petersburg.

Like other international container carriers, MSC significantly reduced its operations in Russia following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Remaining shipments to Russia on international container lines have primarily included goods such as food, clothing and medicines.

Risks to commercial shipping in the Black Sea have risen sharply in recent months. Attacks on vessels and port infrastructure have significantly reduced shipping activity across the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov and disrupted Russian exports of grain, steel and coal.

Tags: Novorossiysk, container ships, MSC