Turkey proposes moratorium on Black Sea ship strikes to Russia and Ukraine
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Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on 8 August announced that Ankara has proposed a moratorium on attacks against civilian vessels in the Black Sea to Russia and Ukraine. The proposal, conveyed to both sides, awaits their response. It comes after drone strikes injured Turkish crew members and threatened commercial shipping.
The Proposal
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Turkey has called on Moscow and Kyiv to establish a mechanism to halt attacks in the Black Sea, a request previously made by Ukraine. He noted that military actions endanger civilian navigation and commercial transport, threatening vessels owned by Turkish companies or carrying Turkish crews. The proposal follows an August 4 appeal by Ankara for all sides to take immediate steps to protect shipping.
Maritime Security Concerns
Earlier this week, drone strikes on two Turkish-owned vessels wounded crew members, including Turkish nationals. On 4 August, Turkey’s foreign ministry called for concrete measures to protect shipping, warning that further escalation could have serious consequences for food security. In response, Turkish authorities have restricted some commercial traffic bound for Novorossiysk, according to Bloomberg, delaying transit permits through the Dardanelles.
What's Next
Turkey now awaits Moscow and Kyiv’s response to the proposed mechanism. It remains unclear whether the warring parties will agree to a moratorium, as shelling in the Black Sea continues to disrupt civilian trade.
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Turkey proposes moratorium on Black Sea ship strikes to Russia and Ukraine
