The Russian Navy has removed all its warships from the Black and Azov Seas, according to reports from the Ukrainian Naval Forces. As of 06:00 on March 17, 2025, there are no Russian warships present in these waters. However, in the Mediterranean Sea, four Russian warships remain, three of which are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles capable of launching up to 26 missiles in a single strike.
Russian maritime activity in the region has continued through the Kerch Strait, with two vessels moving into the Black Sea, one of which proceeded towards the Bosporus Strait. Nine vessels entered the Azov Sea, five of them arriving from the Bosporus Strait.
Ukrainian officials have also highlighted ongoing violations by Russia of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea of 1974 (SOLAS). Russian forces have been disabling their ships’ automatic identification systems, preventing proper tracking and violating international maritime safety regulations.
The withdrawal of Russian warships follows continued pressure from Ukraine’s military operations and international sanctions that have restricted Russia’s ability to maintain its naval presence in key waters. Despite this, Russia continues to use the Mediterranean as a staging area for potential missile strikes. The presence of Kalibr cruise missile carriers remains a threat to Ukraine and neighbouring countries.
Meanwhile, former United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to speak with Vladimir Putin on March 18, stating that the discussion will focus on ending the war in Ukraine. Trump has indicated that the negotiations will cover territorial disputes and energy infrastructure, raising concerns about possible concessions to the Kremlin.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) have warned that Putin is unlikely to abandon his long term ambitions in Ukraine, even in the event of a ceasefire. Experts caution that any agreement that does not ensure full Ukrainian sovereignty could simply allow Russia to regroup and resume its aggression at a later stage.
