Ukrainian ports are currently paralyzed by traffic jams caused by dozens of ships
A line of dozens of ships heading to Ukrainian ports to load grain has formed near the Sulina Canal on the Danube.
According to estimates by traders and analysts, up to 70 ships are expected to pass through.
The congestion is caused by a shortage of pilots, the canal’s limited capacity, priority given to other cargo, and air raid alerts, which temporarily halt operations at Ukrainian ports.
Each day of downtime can cost carriers up to $8,000, which increases the cost of transporting grain. The situation could also worsen due to inclement weather, which could lead to a temporary closure of the canal.
Source: Reuters.
Russian strikes on Ukrainian ports and problems with maritime exports could jeopardize not only this year’s grain shipments but also the 2027 planting season. Due to difficulties in selling their harvest, farmers risk being left without sufficient funds for seeds, fertilizers, fuel, and other necessary resources.
The Russians have begun installing anti-drone nets and special “cages” on oil tankers and port terminals in an effort to protect them from attacks by Ukrainian drones.
