Russia continues to violate international law by taking over the responsibility on international shipping in the maritime areas adjacent to the Crimea, which are an integral part of the territory of Ukraine. Such actions threaten the safety and security of navigation in the Black Sea. It is stated in the document submitted by Ukraine for consideration of the IMO Legal Committee in London.

Ukrainian delegation also called on Russia to immediately release the 24 Ukrainian servicemen, who were detained whilst lawfully attempting to sail through the Kerch Strait.

Following consideration, delegations of the EU countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, the United States as well as the representative of the European Commission have condemned the illegal annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation and once again called upon the IMO Member States to remain committed to fully implement policy of non-recognition of the attempted annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol.