• ISPS Security Level 3 remains in force in the northern part of the Black Sea and in the Sea of Azov. This includes adjacent rivers and delta areas. 
  
• The ISPS Security Level 3 area is extended to include the eastern part of the Black Sea. 
  
• The remaining areas of the Black Sea are raised to ISPS Security Level 2, except for the territorial waters of Georgia, Türkiye, Bulgaria and Romania (excluding the Danube Delta).  

The security situation in the Black Sea continues to be heavily influenced by the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the region remains one of the highest-risk operating areas for international shipping. Military activity at sea has increased significantly since early July, and the conflict now affects a wider geographical area than before. As a result, merchant vessels face an increased risk of both direct attacks and unintended collateral damage arising from military operations.  

The threat environment includes missiles, drones and mines, as well as extensive interference with GNSS, AIS and other navigation and communication systems. Such interference may affect situational awareness, navigational safety and communications.  

 It should be emphasised that the situation in the Black Sea remains highly volatile and may change rapidly.  Recent developments indicate that military operations are expanding beyond Ukrainian ports and coastal waters into larger parts of the western Black Sea. This includes areas close to Romania and Bulgaria. Shipowners and masters are advised to monitor developments closely through reliable sources and to keep up to date with relevant threat assessments and other operationally important information.