MSC Suspends Novorossiysk Bookings After Drone Strike on Vessel

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co. has halted new bookings to and from Russia's Novorossiysk port following a drone strike on its vessel, MSC ULSAN III. The suspension was effective immediately after the attack, which occurred while the ship was en route to the port. MSC is monitoring the security situation and has advised customers to seek alternative arrangements for imports and exports. The company has reduced its operations in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 but continues to operate at other Russian ports like St. Petersburg. This incident is part of a broader Ukrainian campaign targeting Russian maritime assets, with reports indicating that 218 Russian vessels have been struck in recent weeks. The attack on MSC ULSAN III follows a similar incident involving the Greek-operated tanker Skiros, which was also attacked near Novorossiysk.

Key Points: • MSC has suspended bookings to Novorossiysk after a drone attack on its vessel. • The incident is part of ongoing Ukrainian maritime operations against Russian assets. • MSC continues limited operations at other Russian ports despite the suspension.