Russia failed to completely block Ukraine’s seaports — Zelenskyy

Russia has failed to completely block Ukraine’s seaports despite intensifying attacks on port infrastructure. Vessels continue to enter and leave the ports of Greater Odesa, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

According to him, Russia is attempting to impose a full maritime blockade, but traffic through Ukraine’s sea corridor continues. As of late August, 3–4 vessels are entering and leaving the ports of Greater Odesa each day.

“There is no total blockade today. There is an attempt to impose a total blockade, but 3–4 ships a day enter and leave Greater Odesa despite their attacks on port infrastructure,” Zelenskyy said.

The president added that Ukraine is raising Russia’s attempts to block its seaports at the international level. Efforts to counter the blockade are currently focused on two main areas — diplomacy and defense.

In particular, Ukraine is working to strengthen air defense along the maritime grain corridor to protect port infrastructure and shipping. At the same time, negotiations with international partners continue to ensure the stable operation of Ukraine’s seaborne exports.