Port Activity in Odessa: 659 Ship Calls Amid Russian Attacks

In the first quarter of 2025, the Odessa region experienced a notable surge in maritime activity, with 659 ship calls recorded at its three main ports. This increase comes despite ongoing threats, as Russian forces launched at least 35 missile and drone attacks targeting these vital shipping hubs and surrounding infrastructure. The situation highlights the resilience of the region’s ports amid escalating military tensions.

Increased Maritime Activity Amid Ongoing Threats

According to Andriy Klymenko, head of the Monitoring Group at the Institute for Black Sea Strategic Studies, the number of foreign vessels operating in the Greater Odessa ports steadily rose from January to March 2025. The ports recorded 204 ship calls in January, 213 in February, and a significant 242 in March. This trend underscores the importance of Odessa as a key player in the region’s maritime trade, particularly within the established “export corridor.”

However, this increase in shipping activity has not come without risks. Klymenko reported that during this same period, Russian armed forces executed a series of missile and drone strikes aimed at the ports and the surrounding energy and industrial infrastructure. On average, there was one attack every three days, raising concerns about the safety of maritime operations in the area.

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Impact of Attacks on Shipping Operations

The scale of the attacks has been alarming, with estimates suggesting that between 5 to 20 drones were deployed in each strike, totaling between 150 and 200 drones since the beginning of the year. These assaults have resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of port infrastructure and the loss of civilian lives. Klymenko noted that three vessels were specifically targeted during these attacks, with the most notable incidents involving the bulk carrier ‘SUPER SARKAS’ and the container ship ‘MSC LEVANTE F,’ both struck by ‘Iskander-M’ ballistic missiles.

The attacks culminated in a tragic incident on March 11, 2025, when the bulk carrier ‘MJ Pinar’ was hit, resulting in the deaths of four crew members. Despite these challenges, the ports of Odessa continue to operate, demonstrating their critical role in the region’s economy and trade networks. The resilience of these ports amid ongoing military threats remains a focal point for maritime stakeholders and regional authorities.