Russia Doubles Cargo Turnover at Mariupol Port in 2024
In a significant development, the cargo turnover at the Russian-occupied port of Mariupol saw a remarkable increase in 2024. According to the Center for Transportation Strategies (CTS), the port’s cargo turnover nearly doubled, reaching a whopping 350,000 tons, as reported by Russian industry media.
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead to 2025, the port of Mariupol has ambitious plans in store. The CTS has revealed that the port intends to commission 25 port hydraulic structures, including 18 berths, signaling a significant expansion and modernization effort.
Impact of Russian Occupation
The siege of Mariupol began on February 24, 2022, with aggressive bombardment by Russian forces. By March 2, 2022, the city found itself completely surrounded, leading to a prolonged defense by Ukrainian troops. Following the capture of Berdiansk in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian forces advanced towards Mariupol, assuming control of Berdiansk on February 27, 2022, mere days after the invasion commenced.
Russia’s Strategic Moves
Rosmorrechflot, Russia’s federal agency for maritime and river transport, is actively involved in the restoration of port infrastructure in Mariupol and Berdiansk. This initiative falls under Russia’s state program for the socio-economic development of occupied territories and involves the acquisition of numerous real estate objects, hydraulic engineering structures, and fleet units from both ports between June 2023 and December 2024.
The primary objectives behind these measures are twofold: facilitating the extraction of resources from occupied territories and meeting the military requirements of the Russian army. However, these actions have sparked controversy, as the use of Mariupol port by Russian occupying forces contradicts international laws and trade regulations.
Ukrainian Grain Export
As part of its operations, Russia exported more than 180,000 tons of Ukrainian grain through the temporarily occupied port of Mariupol in the reported year. This move drew sharp criticism from Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who estimated the value of stolen Ukrainian grain by Russia to be a staggering $1 billion in November 2023.
The port of Mariupol, a crucial hub for Ukrainian exports on the Sea of Azov, has now become a focal point of geopolitical tensions and economic exploitation in the region. As Russia continues to assert its presence and control over the port, the implications for both Ukraine and international trade remain significant.
As we navigate through these complex developments, it is essential to understand the broader implications and consequences of Russia’s actions in Mariupol and the surrounding regions. The geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, shaping the future of not just these territories but the global community at large. In times of uncertainty and conflict, the need for informed dialogue and proactive engagement becomes more crucial than ever. Let us remain vigilant and informed as we strive for a more peaceful and just world for all.
