The withdrawal of Maersk and CMA CGM from Ukrainian ports may affect not only their services, — AMEU
24.07.2026 - 11:22
The suspension of Maersk and CMA CGM container services to the ports of Greater Odessa may have broader implications for the Ukrainian container shipping market.
As Viktor Berestenko, President of the Association of International Freight Forwarders of Ukraine, told USM, the worsening security situation is forcing shipping companies and feeder operators to temporarily suspend or change services to Ukrainian ports. This is not only about the risks to vessels and crews, but also about damage to port infrastructure, which directly affects the operation of container terminals.
“Recent events have shown that for the container business, it is important not only to have a functioning port, but also to have the carrier’s confidence that the service can be provided regularly and predictably,” Berestenko noted.
He emphasized that container shipping is one of the most sensitive segments of maritime logistics. Unlike the bulk carrier fleet, container lines operate on a fixed schedule, so even short-term uncertainty can lead to changes in routes or temporary cancellation of services.
As of today, Maersk and CMA CGM have officially announced changes in their work in Ukraine. At the same time, according to the president of the AMEU, the impact may be wider than it seems at first glance.
“It is necessary to understand that Maersk used the services of the same feeder carrier, which also provided transportation for some other container lines. Therefore, the impact of these events may be wider,” concluded Viktor Berestenko.
As USM reported the day before, Maersk explained what the timing of the resumption of work in Ukraine depends on.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that, against the backdrop of increased Russian attacks on ports, Ukraine needs urgent support from the European Union to ensure the smooth operation of the Solidarity Routes and to increase the capacity of the Danube Corridor.
