04 Dec 2018 | 10:25 AM UTC
Ukraine: Russia partially lifts maritime blockade Dec. 4
Russia reportedly lifts blockade on Ukrainian sea ports on December 4
Event
According to the Ukrainian government, Russia has partially lifted its blockade on two Ukrainian sea ports - Berdyansk and Mariupol - on the Azov Sea on Tuesday, December 4. Vessels can now access the ports and travel through the Kerch Strait. Some disruptions are expected to remain in the coming days.
Context
On November 29, Ukrainian authorities reported a Russian blockade on two of its Azov Sea ports. Tensions between both countries have been particularly high since Russian forces opened fire on three Ukrainian navy ships in the Black Sea near the Kerch Strait on November 25.
On November 28, martial law was implemented in eastern and central Ukraine in response to these recent events.
Advice
Individuals in the region are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Due to the ongoing conflict, many Western governments advise against travel to the far east of Ukraine, including the cities of Donetsk, Horlivka, Makiyivka, and Luhansk.
