The Russian Federation continues to pose a significant threat to regional maritime safety by maintaining a missile-equipped warship in the Black Sea, according to the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As of 6:00 in the morning on 29 April 2025, Ukrainian military officials confirmed the presence of one enemy vessel in the Black Sea, armed with Kalibr cruise missiles. This ship is reportedly capable of launching a total salvo of up to six missiles.
Alongside this, three additional Russian navy ships have been spotted in the Mediterranean Sea, one of which also carries Kalibr cruise missiles with a potential salvo of up to eight. No Russian warships are currently stationed in the Azov Sea.
Activity in the strategic Kerch Strait remains high. On the day in question, three vessels travelled from the strait into the Black Sea, two of which continued toward the Bosporus. Meanwhile, five vessels moved from the Bosporus into the Azov Sea, with four of them continuing their journey further inland.
The Ukrainian Navy accuses the Russian Federation of violating international maritime law, specifically referencing the 1974 SOLAS Convention. Russian ships reportedly disable their automatic identification systems while navigating, an act that undermines the safety of maritime traffic and contravenes international norms of open and secure sea passage.
Ukrainian officials warn that this behaviour not only increases the risk to civilian and commercial maritime navigation but also demonstrates Russia’s ongoing disregard for international regulations.
This latest report follows a landmark agreement between the United States and Ukraine on 25 March 2025, which aimed to enhance maritime security in the Black Sea. The joint agreement outlines strict prohibitions on the use of force and seeks to prevent the misuse of commercial ships for military objectives in the region.
Despite international efforts to ensure maritime safety, Russia’s provocative naval presence and consistent flouting of international law present a growing challenge for Ukraine and its allies striving to maintain peace and stability in the Black Sea and surrounding areas.
