Europe

The Sea of Azov and Black Sea waters, plus defined inland waters, are designated AP areas as a variety of conflict and other war risk-related activity threatens shipping in these areas.

The Black Sea and Sea of Azov remain high‑risk maritime environments due to the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict and sustained military activity at sea and ashore. Merchant vessels operating in or near these waters face a continuing risk of direct and indirect attack, including missile and drone strikes, naval mines (both moored and drifting), and collateral damage from strikes on port and coastal infrastructure. Commercial vessels have been struck while underway and while berthed, and the potential for misidentification or escalation remains significant.

Port operations in Ukraine and southern Russia are subject to frequent disruption, heightened security measures, and rapid changes in access conditions.

The operating environment is expected to remain unstable for the foreseeable future.