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 safety and security of navigation in the northern part of the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. It is stated in the document submitted by Ukraine for consideration of the IMO Assembly in London.

Following consideration, the EU countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Iceland, Moldova, Norway and the United States have condemned the illegal annexation of Crimea and called upon the IMO Member States to fully implement the policy of non-recognition of the attempted annexation of the peninsula.