Ukraine Prepares to Sell Seized Cargo Ship Accused of Looting Grain
Ukraine Moves to Auction Seized Cargo Ship
Ukraine’s National Agency for Tracing and Asset Management (ARMA) is set to auction another cargo ship, the Anka, as part of its ongoing efforts to sell seized assets and strengthen state finances. This marks the third vessel ARMA has moved to sell this year, with the Anka accused of transporting goods stolen from Ukraine and breaching the ban on entering occupied Crimea. The agency’s actions come amid internal controversy regarding its leadership.
ARMA’s Asset Management Strategy
ARMA has intensified its efforts to liquidate seized assets, including the Anka, which was impounded by the Security Service of Ukraine and the State Border Guard Service in April. The ship, built in 2005 and flagged under Tanzania, was intercepted while navigating the Danube after departing from Moldavia and heading to Turkey’s Gemlik port. Ukrainian authorities discovered evidence indicating that the vessel had been involved in transporting grain stolen from Crimea, specifically exporting 5,000 tonnes of wheat from Sevastopol in late 2024, thus violating Ukraine’s embargo on the occupied port.
The agency has established a solid working relationship with the courts, which recently awarded custody of the Anka to ARMA, allowing the agency to proceed with the sale. Following a technical inspection, ARMA reported that the vessel is in good condition and ready for future use. A video showcasing the ship’s current state has been released, highlighting its readiness for auction. The sale process will be conducted online after the vessel’s valuation, which is estimated at $420,000.
Controversy Surrounding ARMA’s Leadership
While ARMA pushes forward with its asset sales, it faces internal turmoil. Reports indicate that the agency’s director has either resigned or been dismissed, depending on various sources. Olena Duma, the former director, reportedly stepped down after two years of solidifying the agency’s role under Ukrainian law. This leadership change comes at a critical time as ARMA seeks to enhance its operations and public trust.
Despite the controversy, ARMA’s commitment to combating illegal grain exports remains steadfast. Since 2022, Russia has allegedly exported over 400,000 tonnes of grain from Crimea, with more than 20 bulk carriers, primarily Russian-flagged, involved in these operations. The ongoing auction of the Anka reflects Ukraine’s broader strategy to reclaim assets and bolster its economy amid ongoing conflict and challenges.
