OCTOBER 12, 2023 RUSSIAN FEDERATION RESTRICTIONS ON UKRAINIANS ENTERING RUSSIAN FEDERATION TERRITORIES
As of October 16, 2023 the Russian Federation will temporarily restrict the entry of Ukrainian citizens arriving in the Russian Federation as specified in the Government of the Russian Federation Order No. 2723-r dated October 6, 2023.
The Order does not explicitly mention Ukrainian seafarers, but it has been reported that they will not be allowed to enter the country through Russian Federation ports. Furthermore, it is unclear how the restrictions may impact port calls for vessels with Ukrainian crew aboard, but significant difficulties are expected when the restrictions take effect.
Local agents at Ust-Luga have reported that as of October 16, 2023:
– all vessels with Ukrainian citizens on board will be put at the end of the inbound traffic queue for clearance and loading; – other restrictions, yet to be specified, should be expected; – shore leave and crew changes for Ukrainians will be prohibited; and – recommend for Ukrainian crew to sign off of vessels before arrival to avoid possible delays.
Russian Federation ports in the Black Sea region including Novorossiysk, Taman, Tuapse and Kavkaz have advised that shore leave and crew changes for Ukrainian crew will be prohibited but have been reported no other restrictions thus far.
Members with Ukrainian citizens aboard their vessels that have plans to call at any Russian Federation ports are recommended to check and confirm the security policy at that port of call.
Your Managers recommend that Members take note of this information and be guided accordingly and thank Club correspondent AXIS Ltd in Novorossiysk for providing this update.
