India’s proposal to restore safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea is among options being considered for a possible maritime truce between Russia and Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Zelenskyy said India, Egypt and Türkiye had presented proposals aimed at restoring safer navigation for merchant vessels in the Black Sea. Ukraine is prepared to support a maritime truce based on these proposals, while awaiting Russia’s response.
The initiative comes amid continued risks to commercial shipping in the Black Sea, where attacks on vessels and port infrastructure have disrupted cargo movements and affected food and commodity exports. Marine insurers have also expanded the area treated as high risk, reflecting increased security concerns.
India has maintained that maritime security and freedom of navigation are important for global trade, energy security and food supplies. At a September 17 UN meeting, India reiterated its support for a free, open and secure maritime domain in accordance with international law.
A maritime arrangement could help reduce risks for merchant vessels and improve the movement of agricultural commodities through the Black Sea, although its implementation would depend on agreement and reciprocal steps by the parties involved.