Ukrainian Government approves the Maritime Security Strategy implementation plan

23 November, 2024 SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the corvette Ivan Mazepa. Freeze frame from a video by the Ukrainian Navy The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the Maritime Security Strategy implementation plan developed by the Ministry of Defense.

This was confirmed by Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umierov on November 22. According to Umierov, the document aims to ensure that the tasks and goals set out in the Strategy are met. The plan's objectives include strengthening the capabilities of Ukraine's security and defense sector, the Armed Forces Navy, and the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine to "counter aggression and respond to other threats to maritime security."

It also includes de-occupation of the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine's coast, inland waters and continental shelf. It also regards the compensation for the losses caused by Russia and the restoration of maritime and river infrastructure damaged by the war. "Together, we are approaching the moment when the Black and Azov Seas will once again be completely free and safe for Ukraine," the Defense Minister added.

The Maritime Security Strategy was approved by the National Security and Defense Council in July 2024. Subsequently, President Volodymyr Zelenskyi enacted the decision by decree. In general, Ukraine's Maritime Security Strategy is based on the following principles:

  • defense and security - development of maritime defense capabilities to deter and repel aggression and minimize external threats;
  • resilience - the ability of the maritime and river potential to adapt to changes in the security environment, supporting sustainable functioning;
  • development - building and strengthening maritime capabilities to ensure national interests and maritime security;
  • interaction - strengthening interagency ties and strategic relations with other states to develop cooperation and national security of Ukraine.
Illustrative photo of an inflatable boat.

Source: Ukrainian Navy.

Maritime security plays an important role in Ukraine's national security system.

The strategy will be financed from the state budget and other sources, including foreign investment.