Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine is ready to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine is ready to help unblock the Strait of Hormuz, drawing on the experience gained whilst countering the blockade in the Black Sea, according to Politico.
He said the issue is relevant to the whole world due to the energy crisis. Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine has already shared its experience of operating the Black Sea corridor and the mechanisms behind its functioning.
During a trip to the Middle East, Ukraine concluded several long-term defence agreements. At the same time, Kyiv, according to Zelenskyy, is offering not only weapons but also its own experience in the security sector, which could be useful for ensuring navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route through which a significant proportion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass. According to the source, Iran is blocking this route in response to strikes by the US and Israel.
US President Donald Trump insists on unblocking the strait and is calling on allies to join this effort. Over 20 countries have agreed to support the US-led initiative, though not all are prepared to participate in military action.
Ukraine is proposing an alternative approach, drawing on its own experience in the Black Sea. In 2023, Russia blocked Ukrainian grain exports, triggering a global food crisis. Ukraine managed to restore shipping by pushing back the Russian fleet and ensuring the maritime corridor remained open.
Despite missile and drone strikes, ports in the Odesa region receive around 200 cargo ships every month. According to Andriy Klymenko, head of the monitoring group at the Black Sea Strategic Studies Institute, Ukraine has established a comprehensive system to protect shipping from various threats.
The system includes protection against air attacks, countermeasures against sea mines, and coordination between various units, including coastal artillery and aviation. Maritime drones, which were used against the Russian fleet, played a significant role.
According to representatives of the defence industry, Ukrainian maritime drones not only serve as strike assets but can also be equipped with machine guns, missile launchers and FPV drones.
In addition to military measures, Ukraine has also introduced ship insurance schemes. In particular, in November 2023, the government launched the Unity Facility programme in collaboration with the insurance companies Lloyd’s of London and Marsh McLennan. The programme was extended in March.
The Ukrainian side believes that a combination of such instruments could also be effective in ensuring the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
