The Panama Maritime Administration strongly recommends that all Panamanian-flagged vessels avoid transit and operations in Ukrainian and Russian waters of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov due to ongoing military risks, including missile and drone attacks, drifting sea mines, port restrictions, and potential threats to vessels and crew.

Vessels operating in Ukrainian ports or transiting the affected areas must:

• maintain enhanced security measures in accordance with the Ship Security Plan (ISPS Code);
• follow instructions issued by local authorities and maintain close communication with local agents;
• keep AIS and LRIT systems operational unless their use may compromise vessel security;
• increase bridge watchkeeping, access control, communication monitoring, and emergency preparedness;
• report any intentional shutdown of security-related equipment to the Panama Maritime Administration.

Ships requiring departure from Ukrainian ports with expired certificates or pending inspections must contact the Panama Maritime Authority / Segumar Offices for further instructions.

The use of armed security personnel onboard Panama-flagged vessels in Ukrainian and Russian waters is prohibited.

In case of any incident or suspicious activity, vessels must immediately notify the Panama Maritime Authority Maritime Ships Security Department and relevant authorities.

Purpose of the notice:
To ensure the safety and security of Panama-registered vessels, their crews, and compliance with international maritime security requirements during the ongoing conflict in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov regions.

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If you have any other questions or need our assistance, do not hesitate to contact us via office@panamaukraine.com.